The Hoofer by Walter M. Miller
The novel explores the intersection of technology and humanity through a protagonist who is a skilled dancer and performer. It delves into themes of identity, community, and the consequences of advanced technology on human relationships. The story takes place in a world where virtual reality has become indistinguishable from reality itself, raising questions about what it means to be human.
By Walter M. Miller · First published 1952 · Genre: Science Fiction, Literary Fiction, Drama · 4,819 words
First lines
They all knew he was a spacer because of the white goggle marks on his sun-scorched face, and so they tolerated him and helped him. They even made allowances for him when he staggered and fell in the aisle of the bus while pursuing the harassed little housewife from seat to seat and cajoling her to sit and talk with him.
What this Textopian page supports
The Hoofer is listed on Textopian as a novel by Walter M. Miller, dated 1952 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Walter M. Miller
- Date: 1952 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Literary Fiction, Drama, Speculative Fiction, Psychological Fiction
- Length: 4,819 words
- Structure: 1 section, 114 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Hoofer by Walter M. Miller
- 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 The Hoofer?
- How does this novel by Walter M. Miller fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Science Fiction — The narrative explores themes of space travel, the psychological effects of returning to Earth, and the contrast between life in space and on Earth.
- Literary Fiction — The work delves into complex character emotions, societal expectations, and personal struggles, emphasizing character development and thematic depth.
- Drama — The story presents intense personal conflicts, familial relationships, and the protagonist's internal struggles, creating a dramatic narrative.
- Speculative Fiction — The setting and circumstances challenge the norms of reality, exploring hypothetical scenarios related to space and human behavior.
Tags
Science Fiction · Space Opera · Military Science Fiction · Alien Invasion · War Story · Humanity's Struggle · Existential Crisis · Philosophical Themes · Psychological Insight · Character Study · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery