What the Dead Men Say

What the Dead Men Say is a science fiction short story by Philip K. Dick. First published in Worlds of Tomorrow magazine in 1964.

Plot

In What the Dead Men Say, death is followed by a period of 'half-life', a short amount of time which can be rationed out over long periods in which the dead can be revived – so that, potentially, they can 'live' on for a long time. When attempts to bring back important businessman Louis Sarapis fail, it's clearly more than mere negligence. Sure enough, Sarapis starts speaking from beyond the grave. From outer space, in fact.. Yet no-one seems terribly bothered, other than those directly concerned in the plot mechanics. Eventually entire communications networks – phones, TV, radio – are blocked by Sarapis' broadcasts.

Quotes

"Do you think Gam has a chance this time?" Kathy asked. "No, not really. But miracles in politics do happen; look at Richard Nixon's incredible comeback in 1968."

(The book was published in 1964)

External Links

• Fan Site