The narrative follows Harry Allerton, a man who has spent three years in space aboard the spaceship _Eros_, returning to Earth only to discover that he has been presumed dead and that his wife, Nancy, has remarried. Allerton's homecoming is marked by a sense of dislocation and confusion as he grapples with the reality of his situation. He had anticipated a joyful reunion with his family, but instead, he is met with the harsh truth of his wife's new life and the emotional distance that has developed during his absence. As he navigates the media frenzy surrounding his return, Allerton feels like a ghost haunting the life he once knew. The reporters' questions about his future plans and his wife's new marriage only deepen his sense of loss and alienation. He reflects on his motivations for becoming a spaceman, seeking security for his family, only to find that his sacrifices have led to a profound personal crisis. Allerton's internal struggle is compounded by his interactions with Captain Greene, who recognizes Allerton's unique disposition as a spaceman—someone who thrives in isolation and finds comfort in the vastness of space rather than the complexities of human relationships. Greene's insights highlight the psychological toll of space travel and the societal expectations placed on individuals like Allerton. The story culminates in Allerton's visit to Nancy, where he confronts the reality of his son's existence and the life he has missed. Their brief encounter is filled with unspoken emotions, and Allerton is left to ponder his identity and future. He realizes that the security he sought has eluded him, and he must now navigate a world that has moved on without him. Ultimately, the work explores themes of isolation, identity, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of security and adventure. Allerton's journey reflects the struggles of those who seek purpose in a rapidly changing world, questioning what it truly means to belong and the cost of ambition.
By Stephen Marlowe · First published 1958 · Genre: Science Fiction, Psychological Fiction, Drama