Birds of a Feather
The narrative follows J. F. Corrigan, a recruiter for an interstellar zoo known as the Corrigan Institute of Morphological Science, as he navigates the complexities of hiring alien life-forms on the planet Ghryne. The story begins with Corrigan's excitement over the influx of applicants, each eager to be showcased on Earth. He employs a mix of charm and shrewdness to negotiate contracts, often taking advantage of the aliens' desire to visit Earth. As the day progresses, Corrigan encounters a variety of applicants, including a Terraphile Regulan named Lawrence R. Fitzgerald, who is quickly hired, and a Kallerian named Vallo Heraal, who demands a contract to avenge an insult to his clan. Tensions rise when Heraal threatens violence, leading to a dramatic and fake suicide that draws the attention of local authorities. This incident complicates Corrigan's situation, as he faces potential legal repercussions for the Kallerian's death. Amidst the chaos, an Earthman named Ildwar Gorb, who claims to be from a distant planet, attempts to secure a job with Corrigan. Initially dismissed, Gorb's persistence leads to a series of events that culminate in him saving Corrigan from the fallout of the Kallerian incident. Gorb's clever manipulation of the situation reveals his true nature as a con artist, and he ultimately becomes a valuable asset to the Institute. As the story unfolds, Corrigan grapples with the implications of hiring Gorb, who proves to be resourceful and knowledgeable about alien life. However, Corrigan's unease grows as he realizes Gorb's potential to undermine his authority. The narrative explores themes of deception, ambition, and the blurred lines between exploitation and opportunity in the context of interstellar interactions. In the end, Corrigan devises a plan to maintain control over his operation while ensuring Gorb's continued involvement. He manipulates the situation to secure his position, revealing the cyclical nature of con artistry and the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve their goals. The story concludes with Corrigan contemplating the future of the Institute and the legacy he will leave behind, underscoring the ongoing struggle for power and survival in a universe filled with diverse and often unpredictable beings.
By Robert Silverberg · First published 1987 · Genre: Science Fiction, Satire, Adventure · 9,483 words
First lines
Getting specimens for the interstellar zoo was no problem -- they battled for the honor -- but now I had to fight like a wildcat to keep a display from making a monkey of me!
It was our first day of recruiting on the planet, and the alien life-forms had lined up for hundreds of feet back from my rented office. As I came down the block from the hotel, I could hear and see and smell them with ease.
What this Textopian page supports
Birds of a Feather is listed on Textopian as a novel by Robert Silverberg, dated 1987 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Robert Silverberg
- Date: 1987 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Satire, Adventure, Fantasy, Humor
- Length: 9,483 words
- Structure: 1 section, 255 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Birds of a Feather by Robert Silverberg
- 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 Birds of a Feather?
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Genres
- Science Fiction — The narrative explores interstellar travel, alien species, and futuristic concepts, central to the science fiction genre.
- Satire — The story critiques human nature, societal norms, and the exploitation of alien beings, employing humor and irony.
- Adventure — The protagonist's journey involves recruiting alien life-forms, facing challenges, and navigating complex interactions.
- Fantasy — The presence of fantastical alien species and imaginative settings aligns with elements of fantasy.
Tags
science fiction · dystopia · humanity · alien species · interstellar travel · social commentary · identity · technology · evolution · philosophy · relationships · survival