← All chapters

Short Science Fiction · Chapter

Day's Work explained

Two gods, Mogar and Dalen, argue over Dalen's proposal to create a new species of biped with opposed thumbs.

What happens

Two gods, Mogar and Dalen, argue over Dalen's proposal to create a new species of biped with opposed thumbs. Mogar opposes the idea, but Dalen stands firm, and after a tense standoff, Mogar reluctantly allows the experiment. Dalen plans to create a new solar system and name the species 'Man,' hoping to prove that intelligence combined with sentiment can be a desirable life-form.

Themes in this chapter

  • Power and Responsibility

    Dalen's challenge to Mogar's authority and the responsibility of creating a new species.

  • Ethics of Science

    The debate over whether to create a bipedal species and the implications of such an experiment.

  • Resistance and Rebellion

    Dalen's defiance of the conservative Mogar and the established order.

Characters to notice

  • Dalen

    Young god who proposes creating a new species, defies Mogar's opposition, and plans the experiment.

  • Mogar

    Old, conservative god who initially opposes Dalen's idea but eventually backs down.

  • Lennat

    Middle-aged god, friend of Dalen, who warns him about Mogar's vindictiveness.

Key passages

  • “Your theories are preposterous and repellent. No entity in physical shape can ever learn to live a useful life.”

    Mogar dismisses Dalen's ideas as absurd and argues that physical beings cannot lead productive lives.

    Mogar's initial rejection of Dalen's proposal.

  • “I intend to develop a new solar system, to be known as the XXXVI, out on the fringe of the galaxy, and attached for administrative purposes to my home Constellation Hercules.”

    Dalen announces his plan to create a new solar system and populate a planet with his experimental species.

    Dalen's formal proposal to Mogar.

  • “This was a good day's work.”

    Dalen reflects that despite the challenges, he has made significant progress toward his goal.

    Closing thought of the chapter, highlighting Dalen's satisfaction.

Read this chapter freeBook page