The Space Between
In a futuristic setting, a space pilot named Jak SP34509260 navigates the cosmos with his pregnant companion, Drusilla GW414249834. Their journey is interrupted by the arrival of a spacecopter from Enceladus, which leads to an encounter with a self-proclaimed pirate, Captain Flim, and his crew. Flim, disillusioned with the mundane nature of space exploration, seeks excitement through piracy, despite the absence of real pirates in the current era. As Flim and his crew board Jak's ship, tensions rise. Flim's obsession with Drusilla and his disdain for Jak's modernity create a volatile atmosphere. Flim orders Jak to be executed, insisting on a traditional pirate method, the "Firing Squad." However, Jak cleverly manipulates the situation, revealing Flim's ignorance of firearms and ultimately causing a mishap that sends Flim and his crew drifting into space. With the threat neutralized, Jak confronts Drusilla about her apparent attraction to Flim and her motivations for wanting to return to Earth. He accuses her of being disingenuous about her feelings and intentions. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the complexities of relationships in a high-stakes environment. As they change course for a Space Patrol station, Jak's frustration with Drusilla's behavior culminates in a confrontation that reveals deeper issues in their relationship. The story concludes with Jak asserting his authority and determination to return to his work, leaving Drusilla to grapple with the consequences of her actions and desires. The work blends elements of science fiction, adventure, and psychological drama, highlighting the characters' struggles against the backdrop of space exploration.
By Robert Ernest Gilbert · First published 1972 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Drama · 5,092 words
First lines
_Somewhat like Nathan Hale of old, Jak SP regretted having but one vitality to give for his Planet. and the starry-eyed Drusilla._
One hour and forty-one minutes before deceleration, the spacecopter materialized off to right, matching precisely the 3360 kilometers per second speed of the Box. Jak SP34509260 jerked erect in answer to blinking red lights and screeching collision whistles. The dark glass and liquid ozone of the control cabin windows gave but a distorted view of space, although enough to show the sleek shape outside.
What this Textopian page supports
The Space Between is listed on Textopian as a novel by Robert Ernest Gilbert, dated 1972 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Robert Ernest Gilbert
- Date: 1972 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure, Drama, Satire, Fantasy
- Length: 5,092 words
- Structure: 1 section, 120 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Space Between by Robert Ernest Gilbert
- 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
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Space Between?
- How does this novel by Robert Ernest Gilbert 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 book features futuristic technology, space travel, and extraterrestrial elements, which are hallmarks of the science fiction genre.
- Adventure — The plot involves a journey through space and encounters with pirates, creating a sense of adventure and exploration.
- Drama — The interpersonal conflicts and emotional dynamics between Jak and Drusilla add dramatic depth to the narrative.
- Satire — The book critiques societal norms and the absurdity of certain behaviors, particularly through the character of Captain Flim.
Tags
science fiction · space exploration · interpersonal relationships · philosophy · existentialism · human experience · cosmic journey · emotional depth · identity · time travel · adventure · mystery