This story, "The Dead Lady of Clown Town," by Cordwainer Smith, is one of my favorites. It is technically a science-fiction story, but one that is the framework for a very deep spiritual truth. If you are inclined, here's the link. I'd be interested in hearing other people's opinions.

http://www.webscription.net/chapters/14165...6520953___2.htm

Number Seven;
For a minute I thought I was stuck in "A Brave New World", mixed with "1984" and "Alice in Wonderland". But the further I read the more the story unfolded to reveal its message. I enjoyed the book but moreso the message of love prevailing over all things and never dies. Oh, that the world could see past the beast and into the human heart and soul! I loved the dog-girl D'joan. Her character really came alive to me. Thank you for this contribution that I'm sure is overlooked by so many of us. I have never heard of it before.....God's Peace....To`na Wanagi

To'na, I am so glad you read it. Every time I read it, I find something new to think about. I was struck this time by how the "true people" had lost their humanity because they had lost love, while the "underpeople" became human because they discovered it...and in so doing, saved everyone.

Cordwainer Smith was a contemporary of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkein, but while everyone has heard of Narnia and Middle Earth, no one seems to know about "The Instrumentality of Mankind." Smith worked in science-fiction in the same way that the other two worked in fantasy, and his works are often just as full of spiritual allegory.

Number Seven, when I return from my trip on the 1st I plan to check the web and see what other works Mr. Smith has put out. If he can compare to C.S Lewis or J.R.R. Tolkien, then he will have won himself another fan.
BTW, I like your new photo!....Peace and Love....To`na Wanagi