The Smiler: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
The Smiler: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.
The Smiler is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Hernhuter, Albert (1934–?).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"The Smiler" by Albert Hernhuter is a science fiction short story originally published in the early 1950s. The narrative unfolds in a tense and intriguing atmosphere, centered around the themes of infiltration, control, and the potential dangers of creative expression. It explores ideas about the power of imagination and its impact on society through the lens of an extraordinary premise involving Martians disguised as humans. The story revolves around Martin Cole, a literary agent who admits to killing a fellow writer, Sanford Smith, to protect a Martian conspiracy aimed at taking over Earth. During a coroner's inquest discussing Smith's death, Cole reveals that the Martians view science fiction writers as a significant threat due to their ability to disclose forbidden knowledge and undermine their plans. As the inquest progresses, it becomes apparent that Cole's seemingly controlled demeanor masks a chilling reality, leaving a haunting impression of how deeply their influence pervades society. The riveting conclusion sees Cole using a deadly weapon disguised as a common fountain pen, emphasizing the story's themes of hidden dangers and the subversive potential of fiction.
Book and edition facts
- Title: The Smiler
- Author credits: Hernhuter, Albert (1934–?)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Extraterrestrial beings -- Fiction
- Science fiction
- Short stories
Gutenberg collections
- Category: American Literature
- Category: Crime, Thrillers and Mystery
- Category: Science-Fiction & Fantasy
- Category: Short Stories
- Science Fiction
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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.
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