Sodom and Gomorrah, Texas by R. A. Lafferty
The novel is a satirical exploration of American culture and society. It tells the story of two brothers who are sent to Sodom and Gomorrah, Texas, a town that exists outside of time and space, where they must confront their own moralities and the nature of good and evil. The narrative is a complex blend of fantasy, science fiction, and social commentary, with a focus on themes such as morality, free will, and the consequences of human actions.
By R. A. Lafferty · First published 1974 · Genre: Fantasy, Science Fiction, Satire · 3,209 words
First lines
Manuel shouldn't have been employed as a census taker. He wasn't qualified. He couldn't read a map. He didn't know what a map was. He only grinned when they told him that North was at the top.
He knew better.
What this Textopian page supports
Sodom and Gomorrah, Texas is listed on Textopian as a novel by R. A. Lafferty, dated 1974 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: R. A. Lafferty
- Date: 1974 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fantasy, Science Fiction, Satire, Magical Realism, Adventure
- Length: 3,209 words
- Structure: 1 section, 124 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Sodom and Gomorrah, Texas by R. A. Lafferty
- 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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Genres
- Fantasy — The narrative includes fantastical elements such as a dwarf, a talking mule, and a hidden society of 'little people', which are central to the plot.
- Science Fiction — The story explores themes of population counting and the implications of a census, alongside speculative elements like the existence of a miniature civilization.
- Satire — The work critiques bureaucratic processes and societal norms through absurdity and humor, particularly in the character of Manuel and the census.
- Magical Realism — The blending of magical elements with realistic settings and situations reflects the characteristics of magical realism.
Tags
Science Fiction · Western · Fantasy · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Texas Setting · Small Town Life · Gothic Horror · Supernatural Elements · Mystery · Adventure