Pythias by Frederik Pohl (1955)
The novel follows the adventures of a group of scientists who travel to the planet Pythias, a world of strange and exotic creatures. The scientists are sent to investigate the planet and its inhabitants, and to determine if it is suitable for human colonization. The scientists soon discover that Pythias is a world of danger and mystery, and they must use their wits and courage to survive. Along the way, they encounter strange creatures, hostile natives, and a mysterious force that seems to be controlling the planet. The novel is a thrilling adventure story, full of suspense and excitement. It is also a thought-provoking exploration of the nature of humanity and our place in the universe.
By Frederik Pohl · First published 1955 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy · 2,706 words
First lines
Sure, Larry Connaught saved my life -- but it was how he did it that forced me to murder him!
I am sitting on the edge of what passes for a bed. It is made of loosely woven strips of steel, and there is no mattress, only an extra blanket of thin olive-drab. It isn't comfortable; but of course they expect to make me still more uncomfortable.
What this Textopian page supports
Pythias is listed on Textopian as a short story by Frederik Pohl, dated 1955 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Frederik Pohl
- Date: 1955 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy, Mystery
- Length: 2,706 words
- Structure: 1 section, 65 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Pythias by Frederik Pohl
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Pythias?
- How does this short story by Frederik Pohl fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- The Man Who Hated Mars by Randall Garrett
- The Man The Martians Made by Frank Belknap Long
- With These Hands by C. M. Kornbluth
- The Moon Is Green by Fritz Leiber
- Martians Never Die by Lucius Daniel
Genres
- Science Fiction — Pythias is a science fiction novel by Frederik Pohl, set in a future where humans have colonized the stars and are threatened by an alien race.
- Adventure — The novel follows the adventures of the protagonist, Pythias, as he embarks on a mission to save humanity from the alien threat.
- Fantasy — The novel contains elements of fantasy, such as the use of magical powers and the presence of mythical creatures.
- Mystery — The novel also contains elements of mystery, as Pythias must unravel the secrets of the alien race in order to save humanity.
Tags
Science Fiction · Short stories · connaught · could · day · death · dick · found · grenade · hand · larry · laurence