Book Read Free

Alien Radio

Page 2

by Mike Resnick;Nick DiChario


  Thank you for asking. The fourth truth is the truth of “collective destructive realization.” Because the beings in question are the only life forms on this planet who are free of instinct, who are capable of conceptualizing their deaths, repressing reality, hiding within social structures and self-limitation, because they fashion their existences around the power of denial, they are subconsciously rooted in self-destruction, and are destined to annihilate themselves unless they can radically restructure their psyches.

  Too late for that, I guess.

  So it would seem.

  Well, to be perfectly honest, we're all kind of bored down here. We're anxious to move on. Where are we going next?

  I've had such rotten luck in this galaxy, I thought maybe we'd try M33 in Andromeda next. I just have to give the fifth and final truth, and then we'll leave.

  No time, Pop.

  But it will tell them how to overcome Truth #4, live forever, achieve Utopia, rid themselves forever of body odor and halitosis, and become one with the Star Maker.

  Pop, you've only got about a minute to get out of there. Can you state it in 45 seconds?

  The fifth truth in 45 seconds? Well, if I say it very fast...

  You're down to 40.

  Oh, well, maybe the Adromedans will appreciate it. Ladies and gentlemen, we return you to now to your regularly-scheduled programming...

  * * * *

  "Jose Canseco steps up to the plate, with two men out and a runner on third. He takes his position, hitches up his pants, and shades his eyes..."

  "Sure is a bright afternoon, isn't it, Al?"

  "Sure is, Ed. Can't remember the last time I saw such a bright sun..."

  Long pause.

  "Or so many of them?"

  —End—

  * * *

  Visit www.Fictionwise.com for information on additional titles by this and other authors.

 

 

 


‹ Prev