# The Devil's Asteroid explained — Short Fiction

> Chapter companion for Short Fiction by Manly Wade Wellman.

## What happens

Fitzhugh Parr is exiled to a small asteroid by Martians under treaty, where he discovers a community of degenerating Terrestrial exiles and a hidden plot involving a device that reverses evolution. He eventually helps restore the exiles and is appointed governor.

## Themes in this chapter

### Transformation and Duality

The asteroid's evolution-reverse device causes physical and mental degeneration, transforming humans into beast-men, while the reversal restores them.

### Isolation and Otherness

Parr and the exiles are isolated on a small world, becoming 'other' through degeneration and exile.

## Character check-ins

### Fitzhugh Parr

Protagonist exiled to the asteroid; becomes governor after helping reverse the degeneration.

### Varina Pemberton

First woman exiled to the asteroid; orchestrates the reversal of the evolution-reverse device.

### Ling

Giant beast-man and boss of the outcast horde; initially challenges Parr.

### Shanklin

Exile who claims to be chief; arrested by Varina's orders.

### Sadau

Diplomatic exile who helps Varina and cheers Parr's appointment.

## Key lines

> I wissh you joy of yourr new home

The Martian skipper sarcastically welcomes Parr to his exile.

_Highlights the Martian disdain for Earth criminals._

> The latest comer always commands here.

The newest arrival is considered the healthiest and thus the leader.

_Explains the social hierarchy among the exiles._

> I’m immune!

Parr realizes his armor protects him from the degeneration force.

_Key moment where Parr understands the armor's purpose._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_37_se/chapters/the-devil-s-asteroid
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_37_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_37_se/chapters