Hang head, vandal: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
Hang head, vandal: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.
Hang head, vandal is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Clifton, Mark (1906–1963).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"HANG HEAD, VANDAL!" by Mark Clifton is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The book explores the ethical implications of scientific discovery and human action as humanity attempts a nuclear experiment on Mars, an ostensibly lifeless planet. It raises questions about the consequences of such actions, particularly regarding the potential destruction of alien life and habitats in the pursuit of knowledge. The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of a communications officer and the project's leader, Dr. VanDam, as they embark on Project Slow-Burn. Their goal is to test their nuclear theories by converting the Martian landscape into a source of continuous energy. However, the experiment inadvertently reveals a hidden civilization on Mars, comprised of miniature beings. The sudden realization of the destruction they are causing leads to feelings of guilt and horror among the crew. As the team grapples with the consequences of their actions, they choose to abandon the project and retreat to Earth, leaving a haunting sense of lost innocence and moral responsibility. The story serves as a poignant commentary on humanity's capacity for destruction under the guise of progress.
Book and edition facts
- Title: Hang head, vandal
- Author credits: Clifton, Mark (1906–1963)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Experiments -- Fiction
- Mars (Planet) -- Fiction
- Science fiction
- Short stories
Gutenberg collections
- Category: Science-Fiction & Fantasy
Read this edition
View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.
Sources
More in Books & Authors
Keep reading
