The story revolves around Madeleine, a young woman who is on Mars with her boyfriend Don. They are part of a group that lives in a community called Martian Haven, where they try to live a life free from the constraints of technology and societal expectations. Madeleine becomes disillusioned with their way of life and decides to leave, feeling trapped by the artificial nature of their existence. She meets an old man who seems to be a spiritual guide, and he encourages her to explore the true nature of reality. As Madeleine delves deeper into the mysteries of the universe, she begins to experience strange visions and encounters with Don and other members of the community. They seem to be trapped in some kind of limbo, unable to move on from their physical bodies. The old man's words take on a new meaning as Madeleine realizes that she is too old to join them in their spiritual realm. She is left with the choice of returning to her physical body or continuing on her journey into the unknown. In the end, Madeleine chooses to continue on her journey, leaving behind her physical body and joining Don and the others in their spiritual realm. The story ends with a sense of hope and renewal, as Madeleine finds love and connection with Don in their new existence. The themes of the story include the search for meaning and purpose, the nature of reality, and the importance of human connection. The story also explores the idea that true freedom and happiness can only be found by letting go of our physical bodies and embracing a more spiritual existence. The writing style is descriptive and poetic, with a focus on creating a sense of atmosphere and mood. The author uses vivid imagery to describe the Martian landscape and the characters' experiences, drawing the reader into the world of the story. Overall, the story is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant exploration of the human condition, inviting readers to consider the nature of reality and the importance of human connection.
By Kenneth O'Hara · First published 1978 · Genre: Science Fiction, Romance, Fantasy