All the People

"All the People" by R. A. Lafferty is a science fiction novella written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around Anthony Trotz, an unassuming individual who discovers he possesses the extraordinary skill of knowing every person in the world—by name, face, and with a degree of intimacy—even though he has never left his small, restricted existence. The book explores themes of identity, consciousness, and the nature of existence in a world that is increasingly disconnected from personal relationships. The narrative follows Anthony as he navigates his newfound ability, grappling with feelings of isolation and inadequacy despite his impressive knowledge of humanity. Confined to a government filter center and struggling with his role as a "restricted person," he faces ridicule from children and a lack of understanding from his colleagues. As he learns about the true nature of his existence—that he is but a mere functionary for an enormous artificial brain—he uncovers a sense of foreboding regarding the arrival of a group of beings that defy the normal cycles of life. Ultimately, Anthony's journey raises questions about the essence of humanity, the significance of personal connections, and the meaning of life itself.