The Gun by Philip K. Dick (1952)
In a dystopian future, the government has outlawed guns and replaced them with a device that can detect and neutralize any firearm. The story follows a man who discovers a way to circumvent this system and obtain a gun, leading him into a world of rebellion against the oppressive regime.
By Philip K. Dick · First published 1952 · Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Adventure · 6,360 words
First lines
The Gun
Nothing moved or stirred. Everything was silent, dead. Only the gun showed signs of life. and the trespassers had wrecked that for all time. The return journey to pick up the treasure would be a cinch. they smiled.
What this Textopian page supports
The Gun is listed on Textopian as a novel by Philip K. Dick, dated 1952 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Philip K. Dick
- Date: 1952 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Adventure, Philosophical, Speculative Fiction
- Length: 6,360 words
- Structure: 1 section, 193 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Gun by Philip K. Dick
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
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- How does this novel by Philip K. Dick fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Science Fiction — The narrative explores futuristic technology, space travel, and the consequences of atomic warfare, which are central themes in science fiction.
- Dystopian — The setting depicts a post-apocalyptic world where civilization has collapsed due to war, reflecting dystopian themes of societal failure.
- Adventure — The characters embark on a perilous journey to explore an alien planet, facing dangers and uncovering mysteries.
- Philosophical — The story raises questions about existence, the nature of life, and the consequences of human actions, prompting philosophical reflection.
Tags
Science Fiction · Dystopian · Psychological Thriller · Gun Culture · Mystery · Thriller · Action · Adventure · Speculative Fiction · Alternate Reality · Paranoia · Social Commentary