Monkey On His Back: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
Monkey On His Back: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.
Monkey On His Back is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for De Vet, Charles V. (1911–1997).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"Monkey On His Back" by Charles V. De Vet is a science fiction novella originally published in the June 1960 issue of "Galaxy" magazine. The story presents a gripping narrative that explores themes of identity, memory, and the burdens of morality within a futuristic setting. Through its complex yet relatable protagonist, the author examines the psychological elements of confronting one’s past and the internal struggles that result from it. The tale follows John Zarwell, a man grappling with fragmented memories and an elusive identity as he undergoes psychoanalysis on an alien planet called St. Martin's. Through a series of intense comanalysis sessions with psychologist Milton Bergstrom, Zarwell experiences vivid recollections of past events where he played pivotal roles in uprisings and rebellions across various worlds. His struggles with the moral implications of his actions and his desire for peace culminate in the realization that he is haunted by a "monkey on his back," symbolizing the inescapable call to assist those who suffer injustice. As he connects with a figure named Vernon Johnson, who seeks his help in another political struggle, Zarwell grapples with the choice between his inclination to help and his longing for a peaceful life away from conflict. The novella deftly blends elements of action, psychological thrill, and science fiction to delve into the complexities of altruism and personal freedom.
Book and edition facts
- Title: Monkey On His Back
- Author credits: De Vet, Charles V. (1911–1997)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Psychological fiction
- Science fiction
- Short stories
Gutenberg collections
- Category: Novels
- Category: Science-Fiction & Fantasy
- Science Fiction
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
Related stories
