To Sup With the Devil

"To Sup With the Devil" by Myron I. Scholnick is a short fiction piece that likely falls within the realm of dark fantasy or psychological drama, written during the early to mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around the themes of guilt, betrayal, and the moral implications of one's actions, particularly as they relate to the character's dealings with an embodiment of evil. The story features two central characters, Henry and George, who engage in a conversation over wine, which takes a dark turn as George reveals his intent to go to Hell and even kill Henry, driven by jealousy and the influence of the Devil. After learning about an alleged affair between Henry and his wife, George pulls a gun and ultimately commits murder. However, in a twist of fate, George's curiosity about the truth of Henry's actions leads him to doubt his motivations, realizing that he may have been deceived. This moment of doubt culminates in a harrowing realization that the Devil may have orchestrated the situation, presenting a chilling commentary on the consequences of belief and the psychological torment of one's decisions.