Old Shag

"Old Shag" by Bob Farnham is a science fiction short story written in the early 1960s. The narrative follows the unexpected events that unfold during a freight train journey, blending elements of suspense and time travel. The story centers around a train brakeman who encounters a mysterious helper during a life-or-death situation. In the tale, the protagonist, a seasoned brakeman, faces a catastrophic moment when both the engineer and fireman of the freight train fall victim to a deadly incident. With the engine's power down and danger looming due to the train carrying dynamite, a strange, shaggy man appears in the cab to assist him. In a race against time, the brakeman must follow the shaggy man's urgent instructions to avert disaster while grappling with the supernatural implications of their conversation about time travel and destiny. The story culminates in a blend of tension and philosophical reflection, focusing on the fragility of life and the profound impact of individual actions across time.