The Wheel is Death

Name: The Wheel is Death
Author: Roger Dee Aycock

In a secluded valley, a young neophyte named Ortho witnesses the execution of his friend Gor Zan, who is cast over a precipice by the high-priest Kaliz and his under-priests. Ortho is horrified and accuses Kaliz of jealousy, claiming Gor Zan's wisdom posed no threat to the peaceful existence of the People. Kaliz explains that Gor Zan's ideas could lead the People back to ambition and the destructive path of science, which had previously caused humanity's downfall. Kaliz recounts the history of mankind, detailing how early humans, in their quest for safety and progress, developed weapons and engaged in wars that ultimately led to their near extinction. The remnants of humanity, transformed by radiation from catastrophic events, established a new civilization in the valley, where they outlawed science to prevent repeating past mistakes. Gor Zan, however, embodies the old ways, believing in the necessity of improvement through science. His creation of a simple machine, a wheelbarrow, symbolizes the dangerous return to technological advancement. Kaliz, determined to protect the People from the perils of the past, resolves to destroy Gor Zan's invention, emphasizing that the wheel represents the beginning of humanity's enslavement to machines. As Ortho grapples with the implications of Kaliz's teachings, he is torn between the allure of knowledge and the desire to maintain the idyllic life of the People. The narrative explores themes of progress versus stagnation, the consequences of ambition, and the struggle between tradition and innovation. Ultimately, the story serves as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of technological advancement and the importance of preserving a harmonious existence.

By Roger Dee Aycock · First published 1973 · Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Philosophical Fiction · 1,651 words

First lines

The little world was quiet at last. Only one thing remained to be done -- Gor Zan must be slain, quickly.

He was too late to stop them. Old Kaliz dropped his upraised arm, and at his signal the four naked under-priests flung the bound body of Gor Zan over the precipice. Ortho heard his friend's thin scream keening away until it dwindled in the distance and the muted roar of the falls boiling at the cliff's bottom floated upward and drowned it.

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The Wheel is Death is listed on Textopian as a short story by Roger Dee Aycock, dated 1973 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Roger Dee Aycock
Date: 1973 CE
Language: English
Genres: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Philosophical Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure
Length: 1,651 words
Structure: 1 section, 30 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Science Fiction — The narrative explores themes of technology, the consequences of scientific advancement, and a post-apocalyptic society.
Dystopian — The story presents a society that has outlawed science and technology due to past catastrophic events, reflecting a controlled and oppressive environment.
Philosophical Fiction — The dialogue and themes delve into philosophical discussions about knowledge, progress, and the nature of humanity.
Fantasy — Elements of a mythical society and the presence of a priestly caste suggest a fantastical setting, though it is grounded in science fiction.