Martian Time-Slip

by Philip K. Dick

“You’re a damn fool,” Doreen said. “I know it,” Jack said. “But not for the reason you think. I’m a fool because I took on a job without looking ahead to its consequences. I—” He broke off. “Maybe it is what you said. I’m not competent to work with Manfred. That’s it, period.” “But you’re still going ahead. What do you have to show Arnie tonight? Show it to me, right now.” Getting out a manila envelope, Jack reached into it and drew out the picture of the buildings which Manfred had drawn. For a long time Doreen studied it. And then she handed it back to him. “That’s an evil and sick drawing,” she said in a voice almost inaudible. “I know what it is. It’s the Tomb World, isn’t it? That’s what he’s drawn. The world after death. And that’s what he sees, and through him, that’s what you’re beginning to see. You want to take that to Arnie? You have lost your grip on reality; do you think Arnie wants to see an abomination like that? Burn it.” “It’s not that bad,” he said, deeply perturbed by her reaction. “Yes, it is,” Doreen said. “And it’s a dreadful sign that it doesn’t strike you that way. Did it at first?” He had to nod yes. “Then you know I’m right,” she said.