〈영어로 읽는 SF소설 _ 키스 라우머의 스파이가 된 영웅〉
“End as a Hero“는 키스 라우머(Keith Laumer)가 1963년에 출판한 공상과학 소설이다.
이 소설은 외계의 침략에 맞서 싸우다 돌아온 병사가 오히려 적의 스파이로 의심받는 비극적 상황을 그리고 있다. 인류를 위해 싸웠지만 동료들과 조국으로부터 배신당한 주인공의 처지가 안타까움을 자아낸다.
〈Science fiction novels read in English_ End as a Hero by Keith Laumer 〉
“End as a Hero“ is a science fiction novel published in 1963 by Keith Laumer.
This novel depicts a tragic situation in which a soldier who returns from fighting against an alien invasion is suspected of being an enemy spy. The plight of the protagonist, who fought for humanity but was betrayed by his comrades and homeland, evokes regret.
Summary
Granthan's mission was the most vital of the war.
It would mean instant victory?but for whom?
The protagonist, Granthan, wakes up in a lifeboat critically injured after contact with the alien race Gool. Barely surviving thanks to the lifeboat's medical cabinet, he sends a distress signal to the space station to return to Earth.
Upon receiving the signal, Colonel Ausar Kayle asks about the fate of the other crew members and the circumstances of the accident, and Granthan explains that the spaceship was destroyed by Gool and that he is the only survivor.
However, Colonel Kayle raises the possibility that Granthan may have been mentally controlled by Gool and informs him that he cannot be returned to Earth. Gool is a cruel enemy, capable of manipulating even loyal people without their knowledge.
Granthan is furious, but the colonel just tells him to stay in orbit and wait for instructions.
