The Luckiest Man in Denv
In a dystopian society structured by hierarchical levels, Reuben, an ambitious Atomist from the eighty-third level, navigates a treacherous landscape of intrigue and deception. After receiving a pair of suspicious binoculars from a Maintainer, Almon, he becomes embroiled in a plot involving his potential double, a scheme orchestrated by the powerful and manipulative Rudolph. As tensions rise with impending attacks from Ellay, Reuben finds himself in a precarious position, balancing his aspirations for advancement against the dangers of betrayal. When an attack alarm sounds, Reuben encounters General May, who reveals the gravity of the situation: Reuben's life is at risk due to the double's plan to replace him. May proposes a counter-strategy, urging Reuben to eliminate the double and assume his identity. Amidst this chaos, Reuben grapples with his feelings for Selene, a woman entangled in the power dynamics of the upper levels, and the implications of their relationship. As the narrative unfolds, Reuben's ambitions clash with the harsh realities of survival and loyalty, leading to a climactic confrontation that will determine his fate and the future of Denv. The story explores themes of identity, ambition, and the moral complexities of power in a fractured society.
By C.M. Kornbluth · First published 1954 · Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Adventure · 5,644 words
First lines
To get the break of his life, all Reuben had to do was turn the death trap into a jackpot!
May's man Reuben, of the eighty-third level, Atomist, knew there was something wrong when the binoculars flashed and then went opaque. Inwardly he cursed, hoping that he had not committed himself to anything. Outwardly he was unperturbed. He handed the binoculars back to Rudolph's man Almon, of the eighty-ninth level, Maintainer, with a smile.
What this Textopian page supports
The Luckiest Man in Denv is listed on Textopian as a novel by C.M. Kornbluth, dated 1954 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: C.M. Kornbluth
- Date: 1954 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Adventure, Thriller, Political Fiction
- Length: 5,644 words
- Structure: 1 section, 146 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Science Fiction — The story is set in a futuristic society with advanced technology and explores themes of identity, ambition, and societal hierarchy.
- Dystopian — The narrative depicts a society characterized by oppression, class divisions, and the struggle for power, reflecting a dystopian reality.
- Adventure — The protagonist embarks on a journey filled with danger, intrigue, and the pursuit of personal advancement.
- Thriller — The plot involves suspenseful elements, including deception, assassination attempts, and high-stakes conflict.
Tags
science fiction · dystopia · satire · humor · social commentary · futuristic · technology · human condition · irony · survival · capitalism · society