Jim Harmon
February Strawberries
"February Strawberries" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story grapples with themes of death, resurrection, and the consequences of tampering with life, as it follows the protagonist, Frank Linton, in his quest to bring back his deceased wife, Greta. The narrative blends elements of speculative fiction with psychological exploration, examining the nature of reality and identity in the face of advanced, albeit morally ambiguous, technology. The plot centers on Frank Linton, who, after emerging from a mental institution, becomes obsessed with the idea of resurrecting his wife, Greta, who died several months prior. Throughout his journey, Frank encounters a range of characters, including a dubious doctor who claims to have the means to bring the dead back to life. Ultimately, when he succeeds in resurrecting Greta, he discovers that she is altered and not quite the woman he remembered. As the narrative unfolds, Frank grapples with the implications of his actions, confronting the horrific reality of what resurrection entails and questioning the very fabric of his memories and relationships. The story presents a cautionary tale about the desires to conquer death and the unpredictable nature of the consequences that arise from such endeavors.