The Man Who Played to Lose By: Laurence M. Janifer (1933-2002)
The Man Who Played to Lose by Laurence M. Janifer is a thought-provoking and gripping novel that delves deep into the complexities of the human mind and the consequences of our choices. Set in a near-future dystopian society, the story follows the life of Peter Sherwin, a talented pianist struggling with his inner demons. One of the most commendable aspects of the book is the author's skillful characterization. Peter Sherwin, the protagonist, is portrayed with such depth and authenticity that readers cannot help but empathize with his struggles and internal conflicts. His passion for music and his continual battle against his self-doubt make him a compelling central figure. Furthermore, Janifer's writing style is both engaging and elegant. He weaves together vivid descriptions and introspective passages seamlessly, immersing the reader in Sherwin's world. The author's attention to detail is remarkable, especially in the portrayal of the dystopian society, where the divide between the rich and the poor is ever-widening. The plot of The Man Who Played to Lose is intricately constructed, keeping readers guessing and invested throughout. Janifer skillfully explores themes of identity, ambition, and the corrupting power of wealth, all the while maintaining an air of suspense and intrigue. The pacing is perfect, with well-timed twists and revelations that keep the story moving at a satisfying pace. Moreover, the philosophical undertones of the novel add an extra layer of depth to the narrative. Through Sherwin's internal struggles and his interactions with other characters, Janifer raises compelling questions about the nature of success, the pursuit of happiness, and the price one is willing to pay for their dreams. If there is one minor flaw in the book, it would be the occasional overly descriptive passages that might slow down the pacing momentarily. However, given the overall quality of the writing and storytelling, this is a minor drawback that does not detract from the overall experience. In conclusion, The Man Who Played to Lose is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that combines elements of dystopian fiction, psychological exploration, and philosophical contemplation. Laurence M. Janifer's skillful writing, compelling characters, and intricate plot make this book a must-read for fans of thought-provoking fiction. First Page: Transcriber's Note: This etext was produced from Analog Science Fact & Fiction October 1961. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed. THE MAN WHO PLAYED TO LOSE By LARRY M. HARRIS Sometimes the very best thing you can do is to lose. The cholera germ, for instance, asks nothing better than that it be swallowed alive.... Illustrated by Douglas When I came into the control room the Captain looked up from a set of charts at me. He stood up and gave me a salute and I returned it, not making a ceremony out of it. "Half an hour to landing, sir," he said. That irritated me. It always irritates me. "I'm not an officer," I said. "I'm not even an enlisted man." He nodded, too quickly. "Yes, Mr. Carboy," he said. "Sorry." I sighed. "If you want to salute," I told him, "if it makes you happier to salute, you go right ahead. But don't call me 'Sir.' That would make me an officer, and I wouldn't like being an officer. I've met too many of them." It didn't make him angry... Continue reading book >>

The Man Who Played to Lose By: Laurence M. Janifer (1933-2002)

The Man Who Played to Lose by Laurence M. Janifer is a thought-provoking and gripping novel that delves deep into the complexities of the human mind and the consequences of our choices. Set in a near-future dystopian society, the story follows the life of Peter Sherwin, a talented pianist struggling with his inner demons.

One of the most commendable aspects of the book is the author's skillful characterization. Peter Sherwin, the protagonist, is portrayed with such depth and authenticity that readers cannot help but empathize with his struggles and internal conflicts. His passion for music and his continual battle against his self-doubt make him a compelling central figure.

Furthermore, Janifer's writing style is both engaging and elegant. He weaves together vivid descriptions and introspective passages seamlessly, immersing the reader in Sherwin's world. The author's attention to detail is remarkable, especially in the portrayal of the dystopian society, where the divide between the rich and the poor is ever-widening.

The plot of The Man Who Played to Lose is intricately constructed, keeping readers guessing and invested throughout. Janifer skillfully explores themes of identity, ambition, and the corrupting power of wealth, all the while maintaining an air of suspense and intrigue. The pacing is perfect, with well-timed twists and revelations that keep the story moving at a satisfying pace.

Moreover, the philosophical undertones of the novel add an extra layer of depth to the narrative. Through Sherwin's internal struggles and his interactions with other characters, Janifer raises compelling questions about the nature of success, the pursuit of happiness, and the price one is willing to pay for their dreams.

If there is one minor flaw in the book, it would be the occasional overly descriptive passages that might slow down the pacing momentarily. However, given the overall quality of the writing and storytelling, this is a minor drawback that does not detract from the overall experience.

In conclusion, The Man Who Played to Lose is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that combines elements of dystopian fiction, psychological exploration, and philosophical contemplation. Laurence M. Janifer's skillful writing, compelling characters, and intricate plot make this book a must-read for fans of thought-provoking fiction.

First Page:

Transcriber's Note:

This etext was produced from Analog Science Fact & Fiction October 1961. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.

THE

MAN WHO

PLAYED TO LOSE

By LARRY M. HARRIS

Sometimes the very best thing you can do is to lose. The cholera germ, for instance, asks nothing better than that it be swallowed alive....

Illustrated by Douglas

When I came into the control room the Captain looked up from a set of charts at me. He stood up and gave me a salute and I returned it, not making a ceremony out of it. "Half an hour to landing, sir," he said.

That irritated me. It always irritates me. "I'm not an officer," I said. "I'm not even an enlisted man."

He nodded, too quickly. "Yes, Mr. Carboy," he said. "Sorry."

I sighed. "If you want to salute," I told him, "if it makes you happier to salute, you go right ahead. But don't call me 'Sir.' That would make me an officer, and I wouldn't like being an officer. I've met too many of them."

It didn't make him angry... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Science
Short stories

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Wikipedia – The Man Who Played to Lose

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