The Futile Flight of John Arthur Benn

"The Futile Flight of John Arthur Benn" by Edward Halibut is a science fiction short story published in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores the concept of time travel through the experiences of the protagonist, John Arthur Benn, as he navigates various historical periods and reflections on life, ultimately arriving at a poignant, tragic conclusion. With its unique premise and dark humor, the tale delves into the futility of escapism and the consequences of one’s choices. The story follows John Arthur Benn as he embarks on a whimsical yet perilous journey backwards in time, gaining fleeting glimpses of history—from the roaring twenties to the prehistoric era. His sense of adventure quickly turns to futility as he grapples with the absurdities of his situation, punctured by dangerous encounters, like being chased by a wild boar. After experiencing the disorienting effects of time travel and the subsequent realization of his inescapable reality, Benn finds himself back in 1956, leading to a tragic and darkly ironic self-conclusion. The story serves as a satirical reflection on the human desire to avoid present struggles through escapism, exposing the often harsh realities that lie beneath.