The red fetish

Name: The red fetish
Author: Frank Belknap Long

By Frank Belknap Long

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Science-Fiction & Fantasy Short Stories

About This Book

Two shipwrecked men struggle to survive on a sun-baked atoll, their thirst and weakness breeding paranoia, mutual threats, and dark imaginings of cannibalism on a nearby island. One adopts bravado while the other retreats into cowardice, yet both oscillate between self-preservation and fear of being killed or eaten. Preparations for a desperate swim intensify resentment, and a fixation on red hair and ritual practices heightens vulnerability. The story traces how extreme deprivation erodes civility, amplifies violent impulses, and allows superstition and suspicion to displace reason.

About the Author

Frank Belknap Long

Frank Belknap Long was an American author known for his contributions to the science fiction genre. His works often explore themes of space travel and the unknown, reflecting the anxieties and fascinations of the early to mid-20th century. Among his notable titles is "Mars is My Destination," which showcases his imaginative storytelling and ability to blend adventure with speculative concepts. Long's writing is characterized by a unique blend of humor and horror, making him a distinctive voice in the literary landscape of his time. He was also associated with the Cthulhu Mythos, further cementing his place in the pantheon of speculative fiction.