Ambition

"Ambition" by William L. Bade is a science fiction story written during the early 1950s. The narrative explores themes of desire for exploration, particularly in the context of space, against the backdrop of an advanced future society. It delves into the psychological aspects of ambition and the intrinsic human need for adventure and discovery. The plot centers around Robert Lee Maitland, an engineer from the 20th century who is abducted and taken to the year 2634 by a scientist named Swarts. Maitland learns that he is not a subject for interrogation about military secrets as he feared, but rather a participant in psychological tests. As he adapts to this new world filled with advanced technology, he becomes increasingly frustrated upon discovering that humanity has lost interest in space travel despite their technological advancements. He forms a bond with Ingrid Ching, who wishes to experience time travel but is unable to. When he realizes that he will be sent back to his time, Maitland seizes a fleeting opportunity to embark on a journey into space, ultimately achieving his dream of witnessing the stars before being returned to his original time, leaving him with a bittersweet sense of ambition fulfilled.