Age of Anxiety by Robert Silverberg
In a future society, children are raised on a drug called the "unworry drug," which shields them from anxiety until they reach the age of seventeen. At this age, they must choose between continuing a carefree existence or transitioning to adulthood, which involves embracing anxiety and responsibility. The protagonist, Larry, faces this choice on his birthday. He is presented with three capsules: one to continue the unworry state, one to begin the withdrawal process, and a third to delay the decision. Larry chooses the third option, giving himself three days to decide. Larry explores the adult world, visiting the City and the Playground. The City is bustling and tense, filled with adults who have embraced anxiety as a driving force. The Playground, in contrast, is a haven for those who choose to remain in the unworry state, leading a life of passive contentment. Larry is initially repelled by the City's harshness but is equally disturbed by the stagnation of the Playground. Through interactions with a stranger in the City and reflections on his experiences, Larry realizes that his indecision and fear are signs of his capacity to worry, a necessary trait for adult life. He understands that the ability to worry and face challenges is what makes one fit for the adult world. Ultimately, Larry decides to embrace adulthood, recognizing that his journey of anxiety and decision-making has already begun.
By Robert Silverberg · First published 1947 · Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian Fiction, Psychological Fiction · 4,946 words
First lines
"Choose! " said the robonurse. "Choose! " echoed his entire world. But either choice was impossible!
That morning, when Larry awoke, the robonurse was standing at the foot of his bed, smiling benignly. It made no attempt to help him into his housecoat and give him his morning unworry capsule. Instead it waited, poised delicately on its humming treads, making no motion toward him.
What this Textopian page supports
Age of Anxiety is listed on Textopian as a short story by Robert Silverberg, dated 1947 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Robert Silverberg
- Date: 1947 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Dystopian Fiction, Psychological Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Speculative Fiction
- Length: 4,946 words
- Structure: 1 section, 150 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for Age of Anxiety by Robert Silverberg
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Science Fiction — Set in a futuristic world with advanced technology such as robotics and synthetic drugs, the narrative explores technological impacts on human life.
- Dystopian Fiction — The society depicted employs extreme social control measures and creates a regulated world where emotional and mental states are manipulated.
- Psychological Fiction — The story deeply examines internal conflicts and the nature of anxiety as characters confront complex emotional decisions.
- Coming-of-Age — The central plot follows a young protagonist’s transition from childhood to adulthood, highlighting the burdens and revelations of maturity.
Tags
science fiction · speculative fiction · dystopian · psychological · futuristic · existential · social commentary · technological · cerebral · philosophical · conflict · societal change