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Cover of Goodbye, Dead Man!

Goodbye, Dead Man!

Written by Tom W. Harris

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Science FictionShort stories

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About this book

"Goodbye, Dead Man!" by Tom W. Harris is a science fiction short story published in the late 1950s. The narrative revolves around themes of superstition, morality, and the repercussions of one's actions in a dystopian setting, specifically a reactor facility overtaken by outsiders. The story follows the conflict between the protagonist Danny Hern and Orley Mattup, a brutish guard who takes a life, illustrating the consequences of power and the interplay of fate. The story unfolds as Danny and his friend witness Orley Mattup murder an innocent technician, Uncle Pete, during a card game. Following this heinous act, Danny seeks revenge by cursing Mattup with a hex connected to eleven cents, claiming that any attempt to spend it will lead to his demise. As the plot develops, Mattup's increasing paranoia and superstition drive him to cling to the cursed money. The climax reveals the dark twist: the money is actually radioactive, making it a literal death sentence for Mattup, who ultimately succumbs to the very fate Danny orchestrated using a clever mix of psychological manipulation and the flaws of his antagonist.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Goodbye, Dead Man!, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 1 hours
  • intermediate
  • dark
  • suspenseful
  • chilling

Tom W. Harris's "Goodbye, Dead Man!" is a chilling 1950s science fiction short story exploring themes of revenge, superstition, and the insidious nature of power in a dystopian reactor facility. Following the brutal murder of an innocent technician, Uncle Pete, by the brutish guard Orley Mattup, the protagonist Danny Hern masterminds a clever, two-pronged scheme for retribution. Danny curses Mattup with a hex tied to eleven cents, capitalizing on the guard's inherent superstition, while secretly ensuring the money is lethally radioactive. The narrative masterfully blends psychological manipulation with a tangible scientific threat, culminating in Mattup's agonizing, self-inflicted demise as he clings to the very object of his undoing.

“"Goodbye, Dead Man!" (The title, likely spoken by Danny to Mattup after the hex).”

Key themes

Superstition vs. Science
This theme is central to the story, exploring how ancient beliefs can be weaponized or manipulated by modern knowledge. Danny exploits Mattup's superstition with a 'hex,' which is ultimately revealed to be a scientific trap (radioactivity). The story critiques the dangers of ignorance and highlights how fear can make individuals vulnerable to both perceived supernatural threats and actual scientific ones.
Morality and Justice/Revenge
The story deeply probes the blurred lines between seeking justice and enacting revenge. Danny's elaborate plan is a response to a heinous, unpunished murder, but his methods are calculated and cruel, raising questions about the ethical implications of his actions. It asks whether the ends justify the means, and if vengeance truly brings a moral balance or merely perpetuates suffering.
Psychological Manipulation
Danny's primary weapon is not physical force but psychological warfare. He masterfully manipulates Mattup's existing superstition and fear, turning the guard's own mind against him. The story meticulously details Mattup's descent into paranoia, demonstrating the profound and devastating impact of psychological torment, even when the physical threat is initially unknown.

Worth discussing

Is Danny's act of revenge justifiable, or does it make him as morally corrupt as Mattup?

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