Time and the Woman

"Time and the Woman" by G. Gordon Dewey is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story explores the themes of aging, beauty, and the manipulation of time through a character driven narrative. It delves into the psychological struggles of its protagonist, Ninon, as she grapples with her desire to reclaim her youth in a world where space travel can alter temporal realities. The plot centers around Ninon, a woman who is determined to regain her lost youth through the use of a revolutionary space travel technology that allows for faster-than-light speed. As she embarks on a journey with a younger spaceman, Robert, she reveals her ulterior motive to hold onto the charm of youth and beauty. Her obsession grows as she manipulates not only Robert but also the circumstances around them to achieve her goals. However, as they travel through space, her plan starts to unravel, leading to a chilling revelation about the consequences of her desires. Ninon's transformation culminates in an ironic twist, revealing both the perils of her pursuit of eternal youth and the stark reality of aging, as she ultimately faces her fate aboard the ship alone.