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Future life -- Fiction Books
Best books
Henry Van Dyke
The Mansion
"The Mansion" by Henry Van Dyke is a philosophical novella written in the early 20th century. The narrative explores themes of materialism versus spiritual fulfillment, focusing on the life of John Weightman, a wealthy banker committed to upholding societal norms and expectations. The book delves into the consequences of a life measured solely by material success and the inherent values of selflessness and love for others. The story follows John Weightman, who prides himself on his material achievements and societal respectability, as he navigates his relationships with his son Harold and wife. Harold, seeking a more authentic life, feels stifled by his father's rigid values and longs for freedom to make his own choices. After a Christmas Eve dinner where tensions rise, John Weightman experiences a life-altering moment that leads him to an unexpected understanding of his existence. In a surreal journey after his death, he encounters the Keeper of the Gate, who reveals the true measure of a person’s worth lies not in material possessions but in acts of love and kindness. Ultimately, John discovers that his earthly deeds, driven by self-interest, do not grant him the grand mansion he expected in the afterlife, but instead a humble abode reflective of his life's true essence. This transformation compels him to change his approach to life and relationships, particularly with Harold, as he learns the value of genuine giving and connection.
Elizabeth Stuart Phelps
Beyond the Gates
"Beyond the Gates" by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story intricately weaves themes of life, death, and the space beyond, focusing on a middle-aged woman in Massachusetts who, after suffering from a debilitating illness, finds herself navigating the experiences of the afterlife. Through her journey, the novel explores concepts of faith, love, and the connections we carry with us beyond death, particularly emphasizing her relationship with her father, who appears to guide her. The opening of the narrative introduces us to the main character, a woman reflecting on her life as she recovers from brain fever. She paints a portrait of her past, describing her family dynamics, professional life, and struggles with faith. As she begins to regain consciousness, she notes the presence of her family, particularly her young brother, Tom, during a pivotal moment of realization about her impending death. Gradually, she experiences an encounter with her father, who invites her to transcend her illness and venture into the unknown world beyond life, creating a foundation for her exploration of the afterlife, where she soon discovers profound lessons about existence and the nature of love. Through this framework, the opening encapsulates both her human vulnerabilities and a glimpse of the transformative journey that lies ahead.
Coulson Kernahan
A dead man's diary : $b written after his decease
"A Dead Man's Diary" by Coulson Kernahan is a narrative work written in the late 19th century. The book presents a unique fictional account of the afterlife, as narrated by a character who documents his experiences after being pronounced dead and then returning to life. It explores themes of life, death, and the soul’s journey through various states of existence, with a focus on moral and philosophical reflections. The opening of "A Dead Man's Diary" introduces the reader to the thoughts and fears of the narrator regarding death and existence. The narrator expresses a haunting dread of dying alone and reflects on his illness leading to death, while contemplating where his soul has gone during that time. He describes the loneliness and terror associated with the thought of death, positioned between existential awareness and a yearning for life. As he begins his diary, he is determined to recount his profound reflections on death and the afterlife, setting a contemplative tone that will likely be prevalent throughout the rest of the narrative.
Elizabeth Stuart Phelps
The Gates Ajar
"The Gates Ajar" by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps is a religious novel published in 1868 that became the second best-selling religious novel of the 19th century. Written in the aftermath of the American Civil War, it tells the story of Mary Cabot, who grieves her brother's death in battle and loses her faith. Through conversations with her widowed aunt Winifred, Mary discovers a comforting vision of heaven as a corporeal place similar to Earth, where the dead live in spiritual bodies and maintain earthly relationships, ultimately restoring her hope and faith.
Henry Van Dyke
The Mansion
"The Mansion" by Henry Van Dyke is a philosophical short story written in the early 20th century. This poignant narrative explores themes of wealth, self-worth, and the true meaning of success through its main character, John Weightman, a self-made man entangled in the expectations of societal status and material wealth. The story delves into the contrast between earthly aspirations and spiritual fulfillment. The plot follows John Weightman, a prosperous banker, who has devoted his life to building a grand reputation and empire based on principles of financial prudence. As he navigates his relationships with his son Harold and his own values, Weightman is struck by a moment of realization after a mysterious encounter following his death. He envisions a journey to a heavenly realm, where he anticipates the magnificent mansion promised to him. However, upon arrival, he is confronted with the stark difference between his expectations and the reality of a modest hut that represents the sum of his true life's work—revealing that his earthly investments were not accrued from genuine love and selflessness. The story ultimately showcases a profound lesson about the nature of true riches and the importance of acts of kindness driven purely by love rather than for profit or recognition.
Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant
The Land of Darkness Along with Some Further Chapters in the Experiences of the Little Pilgrim
"The Land of Darkness" by Mrs. Oliphant is a narrative fiction written in the late 19th century. It follows the experiences of a newcomer in a disorienting and chaotic realm, characterized by turmoil and distress. The protagonist encounters a bizarre world filled with strange customs, indifferent crowds, and troubling encounters that challenge his understanding of humanity and morality. At the start of the narrative, the protagonist finds himself disoriented and confused upon arriving in this land of darkness, experiencing overwhelming sensations akin to a fall from height. He witnesses a bustling street filled with shops and individuals, yet feels an intense sense of alienation and hostility. The chaotic and cruel behavior of the denizens, alongside the mockery of a shopkeeper, increases his discomfort. His attempts to seek help and exhibit compassion are met with indifference and scorn. As he struggles with feelings of humiliation and rage, he confronts the brutal realities of this land, which leads to a series of traumatic encounters, highlighting the desolation and hopelessness of existence within this strange, unregulated society.
Elizabeth Stuart Phelps
The Gates Between
"The Gates Between" by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Esmerald Thorne, a physician who recounts a life-altering experience that intertwines themes of love, mortality, and the supernatural. As the protagonist navigates his professional responsibilities and personal relationships, his narrative explores deep emotional connections and the consequences of his actions, particularly focusing on his relationship with a remarkable woman named Helen. At the start of the novel, the narrator introduces himself and hints at a profound narrative burden. On a fateful November night, Esmerald sustains an injury while wandering in nature, which leads to a chance encounter with Helen, a woman whose compassion and strength deeply affect him. Their relationship develops during his recovery, highlighting the contrast between Esmerald's clinical life and the emotional awakening he experiences through love. As he reflects on his past and the quirks of his profession, he reveals his growing affection for Helen, capturing the struggle between his rational nature and the powerful pull of his heart. The opening lays the groundwork for themes of love, existential inquiry, and the intersections of life and death that define the narrative.
Malcolm Jameson
The giftie gien
"The giftie gien" by Malcolm Jameson is a short story published in the early 1940s. This speculative fiction piece explores the themes of self-awareness and the perception of one's character and actions through the lens of afterlife judgment. The narrative begins with the mundane interactions of a sales manager and transitions into a surreal exploration of the protagonist's essence after his sudden death. In the story, we follow Jerome Chester Chisholm, a self-satisfied sales manager who is brutally murdered after dismissing the struggles of his underperforming employees. Following his death, he discovers an eerie afterlife where he encounters a demon and is forced to face the judgments of various individuals whose lives he impacted—both positively and negatively. As the manifestations of all the people he's interacted with blend into a grotesque version of himself, Chisholm is confronted with the harsh reality of his self-centered existence, ultimately leading to a profound moment of self-reflection and accountability. Through this journey, the story critiques the nature of self-perception and the importance of understanding how one is perceived by others.
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