Bread Overhead By: Fritz Leiber (1910-1992)
Bread Overhead by Fritz Leiber is a delightful short story that seamlessly blends elements of science fiction and humor. Set in a not-too-distant future, where technological advancements have taken over even the simplest tasks of our daily lives, this story takes a satirical look at a world driven by efficiency. The protagonist, Greta, works in a bakery and is one of the few individuals left who still bake bread by hand. In this mechanized world, where machines are responsible for all facets of life, her traditional approach to baking is seen as outdated and inefficient. But Greta refuses to conform and insists on preserving the art of baking bread. Leiber effortlessly weaves a clever narrative filled with vivid descriptions, subtle humor, and a distinct sense of irony. As readers, we are transported to a world that appears all too possible, where the mechanization of everyday life seems imminent. The author's attention to detail is remarkable, and his ability to create a believable and relatable protagonist adds depth to the story. Throughout the story, Leiber expertly highlights the dichotomy between human creativity and the relentless pursuit of efficiency. He poses thought-provoking questions about the value of personal fulfillment and the importance of maintaining our connection with artisanal practices that bring joy and meaning to our lives. The pacing of the story is perfect, as it slowly builds up to a surprising and satisfying conclusion. Leiber's writing style is engaging and accessible, making this book a quick and enjoyable read. Despite its brevity, Bread Overhead leaves a lasting impact, leaving readers with a newfound appreciation for the simple pleasures in life and the necessity of preserving fading traditions. Overall, Bread Overhead is a remarkable tale that cleverly explores themes of technology, humanity, and the preservation of craftsmanship. Leiber's storytelling prowess shines through on every page, making this delightful short story an absolute must-read. First Page: Bread Overhead By FRITZ LEIBER The Staff of Life suddenly and disconcertingly sprouted wings and mankind had to eat crow! Illustrated by WOOD As a blisteringly hot but guaranteed weather controlled future summer day dawned on the Mississippi Valley, the walking mills of Puffy Products ("Spike to Loaf in One Operation!") began to tread delicately on their centipede legs across the wheat fields of Kansas. The walking mills resembled fat metal serpents, rather larger than those Chinese paper dragons animated by files of men in procession. Sensory robot devices in their noses informed them that the waiting wheat had reached ripe perfection. As they advanced, their heads swung lazily from side to side, very much like snakes, gobbling the yellow grain. In their throats, it was threshed, the chaff bundled and burped aside for pickup by the crawl trucks of a chemical corporation, the kernels quick dried and blown along into the mighty chests of the machines. There the tireless mills ground the kernels to flour, which was instantly sifted, the bran being packaged and dropped like the chaff for pickup. A cluster of tanks which gave the metal serpents a decidedly humpbacked appearance added water, shortening, salt and other ingredients, some named and some not... Continue reading book >>

Bread Overhead By: Fritz Leiber (1910-1992)

Bread Overhead by Fritz Leiber is a delightful short story that seamlessly blends elements of science fiction and humor. Set in a not-too-distant future, where technological advancements have taken over even the simplest tasks of our daily lives, this story takes a satirical look at a world driven by efficiency.

The protagonist, Greta, works in a bakery and is one of the few individuals left who still bake bread by hand. In this mechanized world, where machines are responsible for all facets of life, her traditional approach to baking is seen as outdated and inefficient. But Greta refuses to conform and insists on preserving the art of baking bread.

Leiber effortlessly weaves a clever narrative filled with vivid descriptions, subtle humor, and a distinct sense of irony. As readers, we are transported to a world that appears all too possible, where the mechanization of everyday life seems imminent. The author's attention to detail is remarkable, and his ability to create a believable and relatable protagonist adds depth to the story.

Throughout the story, Leiber expertly highlights the dichotomy between human creativity and the relentless pursuit of efficiency. He poses thought-provoking questions about the value of personal fulfillment and the importance of maintaining our connection with artisanal practices that bring joy and meaning to our lives.

The pacing of the story is perfect, as it slowly builds up to a surprising and satisfying conclusion. Leiber's writing style is engaging and accessible, making this book a quick and enjoyable read. Despite its brevity, Bread Overhead leaves a lasting impact, leaving readers with a newfound appreciation for the simple pleasures in life and the necessity of preserving fading traditions.

Overall, Bread Overhead is a remarkable tale that cleverly explores themes of technology, humanity, and the preservation of craftsmanship. Leiber's storytelling prowess shines through on every page, making this delightful short story an absolute must-read.

First Page:

Bread Overhead

By FRITZ LEIBER

The Staff of Life suddenly and disconcertingly sprouted wings and mankind had to eat crow!

Illustrated by WOOD

As a blisteringly hot but guaranteed weather controlled future summer day dawned on the Mississippi Valley, the walking mills of Puffy Products ("Spike to Loaf in One Operation!") began to tread delicately on their centipede legs across the wheat fields of Kansas.

The walking mills resembled fat metal serpents, rather larger than those Chinese paper dragons animated by files of men in procession. Sensory robot devices in their noses informed them that the waiting wheat had reached ripe perfection.

As they advanced, their heads swung lazily from side to side, very much like snakes, gobbling the yellow grain. In their throats, it was threshed, the chaff bundled and burped aside for pickup by the crawl trucks of a chemical corporation, the kernels quick dried and blown along into the mighty chests of the machines. There the tireless mills ground the kernels to flour, which was instantly sifted, the bran being packaged and dropped like the chaff for pickup. A cluster of tanks which gave the metal serpents a decidedly humpbacked appearance added water, shortening, salt and other ingredients, some named and some not... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Science
Short stories

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Wikipedia – Fritz Leiber
Wikipedia – Bread Overhead

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