Cost of Living by Robert Sheckley
The novel explores the concept of a world where people can buy and sell years of their lives, allowing them to live longer but also creating a class system based on wealth. The story follows a man who buys his way out of poverty by selling years of his life, but soon realizes that he has lost touch with reality and is unable to connect with others. As the protagonist navigates this world, he begins to question the morality of buying and selling time and the consequences it has on individuals and society as a whole.
By Robert Sheckley · First published 1958 · Genre: Science Fiction, Satire, Dystopian · 4,219 words
First lines
Carrin decided that he could trace his present mood to Miller's suicide last week. But the knowledge didn't help him get rid of the vague, formless fear in the back of his mind. It was foolish. Miller's suicide didn't concern him.
But why had that fat, jovial man killed himself? Miller had had everything to live for -- wife, kids, good job, and all the marvelous luxuries of the age. Why had he done it?
What this Textopian page supports
Cost of Living is listed on Textopian as a novella by Robert Sheckley, dated 1958 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novella
- Author: Robert Sheckley
- Date: 1958 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Satire, Dystopian, Literary Fiction, Speculative Fiction
- Length: 4,219 words
- Structure: 1 section, 156 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Science Fiction — The narrative explores futuristic technology and societal issues, typical of the science fiction genre.
- Satire — The story critiques consumerism and societal norms through exaggerated scenarios and character interactions.
- Dystopian — It presents a society where technology dominates life, leading to existential questions and personal despair.
- Literary Fiction — The work delves into character development and thematic depth, focusing on personal and societal conflicts.
Tags
Science Fiction · Satire · Social Commentary · Absurdist Humor · Black Comedy · Existentialism · Philosophical Themes · Critique of Capitalism · Consumer Culture · Alien Invasion · Human Nature · Psychological Insight