Zen by Jerome Bixby

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About this eBook

Author Bixby, Jerome, 1923-1998
Illustrator Ashman, William
Title Zen
Note Reading ease score: 83.4 (6th grade). Easy to read.
Credits Produced by Greg Weeks, Stephen Blundell and the Online
Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net
Summary "Zen" by Jerome Bixby is a science fiction short story written in the early 1950s. The narrative unfolds in a distant future where a team of scientists explores the asteroid Vesta, seeking signs of life and remnants of extraterrestrial civilizations. The story delves into themes of intelligence, isolation, and the longing for companionship, centering around a unique encounter between humans and a remarkable alien species known as the Zen. The protagonist, David Koontz, a paleontologist, discovers a singular Zen creature, the last of its kind, living in solitude after the destruction of its home planet, Sorn. Their poignant interaction reveals the Zen's struggle with loneliness and survival, as she yearns for companionship after three thousand years of isolation. Koontz learns about her incredible resilience and intelligence but is faced with her desperate request for death, unable to end her own suffering. Eventually, the arrival of another Zen offers a glimmer of hope for their species’ continuity. As the story unfolds, it not only highlights the intrinsic value of life but also raises questions about the responsibilities of advanced civilizations toward one another. The resolution of the tale leads to a surprising resurgence of the Zen population, emphasizing the unpredictability and beauty of life amidst adversity. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Language English
LoC Class PS: Language and Literatures: American and Canadian literature
Subject Science fiction
Subject Short stories
Category Text
EBook-No. 29750
Release Date
Most Recently Updated Jan 5, 2021
Copyright Status Public domain in the USA.
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