Mindsnake

"Mindsnake" by Jim Harmon is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story explores themes of identity, companionship, and the nature of humanity within a futuristic setting where the concept of teleportation has evolved into a complex system involving human emotions and experiences. The narrative follows Hammen, a Witch who relies on his canine Familiar, Lad, as he navigates the challenges posed by an enigmatic entity known as the Mindsnake, a being that threatens the very essence of personal identity during transit across space. The plot unfolds as Hammen finds himself at odds with Gordus, a coordinator who questions the legitimacy of the Witch-Familiar bond. When ordered to take a human Companion for a critical mission, Hammen's disdain for people deepens, leading him into a power struggle that reveals the sinister nature of the Mindsnake. As the story progresses, Hammen encounters Isodel, a brilliant but troubled woman whose mind becomes the target of Gordus's ambition. In a climactic revelation, Hammen confronts both the Mindsnake and Gordus, leading to a collective effort that results in the destruction of the Mindsnake but also raises questions about survival and individuality. Ultimately, Hammen must choose between his love for Isodel and his loyalty to Lad, illustrating the tension between personal bonds and the demands of one’s identity.