A life insurance salesman, Sammy Trumple, is dispatched to Halcyon, a planet known for its perpetual warfare despite its peaceful name. Upon arrival, he discovers that the Halcyonians, who have abundant resources and food, engage in constant conflict for entertainment rather than necessity. His attempts to sell life insurance policies are met with confusion and indifference, as the locals do not understand the concept of life insurance and see no need for it. Sammy's correspondence with his boss, Herman Spottsworth, reveals his growing frustration as he fails to make any sales. He learns of a rival insurance salesman, Lar Luk, who has abandoned selling policies to start a munitions factory, capitalizing on the ongoing wars. Sammy's efforts to sell to military personnel are thwarted when he is arrested for allegedly subverting the Halcyonian military ethos by suggesting an end to warfare. While imprisoned, Sammy learns that the Halcyonians believe in reincarnation, which shapes their attitudes toward life and death. His attempts to explain the benefits of life insurance are met with hostility, and he is ultimately charged with subversion. The military authorities consider making an example of him, but a political figure suggests a pardon due to his ignorance of Halcyonian customs. In a desperate bid for freedom, Lar Luk offers to help Sammy escape. However, the escape plan fails when Sammy discovers that the weapon given to him is a siren, not a lethal device. He is captured and killed by the guards. In a twist, Sammy's consciousness is preserved through Halcyonian technology that allows for reincarnation using genetic material. He decides to stay on Halcyon, abandoning his life on Earth and the insurance business, opting instead to join Lar Luk in establishing a munitions factory, aligning with the Halcyonian culture that thrives on warfare and the hope of better lives in future incarnations.
By Stephen Marlowe · First published 1970 · Genre: Science Fiction, Satire, Humor