Challenging
5 stars
A fascinating short story, or maybe just a thought rather than a story? Are things more believable when they're unhappy? What if we just walk away?
eBook, 19 pages
English language
Published Feb. 14, 2017 by Harper Perennial.
5 stars
(5 reviews)
“Ursula Le Guin is more than just a writer of adult fantasy and science fiction . . . she is a philosopher; an explorer in the landscapes of the mind.” – Cincinnati Enquirer
The recipient of numerous literary prizes, including the National Book Award, the Kafka Award, and the Pushcart Prize, Ursula K. Le Guin is renowned for her spare, elegant prose, rich characterization, and diverse worlds. "The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas" is a short story originally published in the collection The Wind's Twelve Quarters.
Review of 'The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas' on 'Goodreads'
5 stars
The most powerful short story I've read this year. This story perfectly encapsulates what could best be described as utilitarianism. You know, the political theory built on the premise of highest good for the greatest number of people. Just goes to show the paradoxical nature of the theory and I'd go as far as to say that it's an allegory on today's vastly unequal society. Highly descriptive, heavily detailed, not overly dramatic, and just the right kind of suspence. The greatest tale under 10 pages.
