The Mercurian by Frank Belknap Long
The Mercurian is a science fiction novel written by Frank Belknap Long and published in 1978. The story follows the adventures of a group of astronauts who travel to the planet Mercury on a mission to investigate strange radio signals coming from its surface. Upon arrival, they discover an ancient alien civilization that has been dormant for thousands of years. As they explore the ruins and try to uncover the secrets of this lost race, they must also contend with dangerous creatures and environmental hazards on the hostile planet. The novel is known for its imaginative world-building and fast-paced action sequences.
By Frank Belknap Long · First published 1928 · Genre: Science Fiction, Horror, Adventure · 6,222 words
First lines
For ages Mankind labelled Mercury a dead world -- a red-hot, seething outpost of hell. Too late Rawley learned of the hideous life that molten, steaming planet spawned!
We stood before the airlock, the old man and I, and watched them go out. Ellison was a granite man and I was just the lad who threw the switches.
What this Textopian page supports
The Mercurian is listed on Textopian as a novel by Frank Belknap Long, dated 1928 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Frank Belknap Long
- Date: 1928 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Horror, Adventure, Fantasy, Mystery
- Length: 6,222 words
- Structure: 1 section, 123 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Mercurian by Frank Belknap Long
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- Woman From Another Planet by Frank Belknap Long
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Genres
- Science Fiction — The plot revolves around futuristic and speculative concepts.
- Horror — Themes of fear and the unknown are prevalent throughout the story.
- Adventure — The narrative includes elements of exploration and action.
- Fantasy — There are imaginative and otherworldly aspects present in the setting and characters.
Tags
science fiction · space exploration · alien life · interstellar travel · cosmic horror · adventure · mystery · suspense · philosophical themes · humanity · technology · extraterrestrial