Homecoming Horde

Name: Homecoming Horde
Author: Robert Silverberg

The narrative follows Haverford, a reclusive ham radio operator, who believes he is the last human alive on Earth after an alien invasion by the Lanthaii. The story begins with Haverford sealing himself in his apartment, having received ominous warnings about the invaders. Initially skeptical, he soon realizes the gravity of the situation as he loses contact with friends around the world, one by one, as the aliens conquer various regions. Haverford's isolation deepens as he monitors the invasion through his radio, witnessing the fall of major cities and the systematic extermination of humanity. He hoards food and fortifies his living space, convinced that hiding will keep him safe. As days pass, he becomes increasingly paranoid and desperate, clinging to the last remaining connection with a fellow operator in Illinois. The tension escalates when Haverford's final contact is abruptly cut off, leaving him utterly alone. He hears the Lanthaii approaching, their methodical invasion evident as they begin to breach his defenses. In a moment of dread, he prepares to confront the aliens, realizing the futility of his efforts to survive. As the aliens invade his space, Haverford experiences a moment of ironic clarity when he notices a fly, a simple Earth creature, that the Lanthaii avoid. This juxtaposition highlights the insignificance of humanity in the face of the overwhelming alien force. Ultimately, Haverford is confronted by the Lanthaii, symbolizing the complete eradication of human life and the triumph of the invaders. The story concludes with Haverford's fate sealed, underscoring themes of isolation, the fragility of human existence, and the indifference of the universe.

By Robert Silverberg · First published 1998 · Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Horror · 1,954 words

First lines

Haverford knew from his radio contracts he was the last man alive on Earth. His death was certain -- for the enemy numbered trillions, a --

The room was sealed as tightly as possible. Haverford had checked it for cracks, made sure the windows were caulked, and now kept constant guard. He was alone. He could never tell when the alien invaders would break through.

What this Textopian page supports

Homecoming Horde is listed on Textopian as a short story by Robert Silverberg, dated 1998 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: 1998 CE
Language: English
Genres: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Horror, Speculative Fiction, Thriller
Length: 1,954 words
Structure: 1 section, 70 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Homecoming Horde by Robert Silverberg
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Homecoming Horde?
How does this short story by Robert Silverberg fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Science Fiction — The plot revolves around an alien invasion and the last human's struggle for survival, typical of the science fiction genre.
Dystopian — The themes of societal collapse and the end of humanity reflect a dystopian setting.
Horror — The atmosphere of fear and the impending doom from the alien invaders create a horror-like tension.
Speculative Fiction — The narrative speculates on the consequences of alien contact and the fate of humanity.