R. A. Lafferty

R. A. Lafferty was an American science fiction and fantasy writer known for his original and eccentric style. He wrote numerous novels and short stories, often characterized by their unique narrative voice and imaginative plots.

Books

Ranked Books All Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Fourth Mansions

    Cover of 'Fourth Mansions' by R. A. Lafferty

    In this novel, readers are plunged into a surreal and allegorical narrative that explores the intersection of mysticism, philosophy, and science fiction. The story follows a journalist who becomes entangled in a complex web of conspiracies involving secret societies, otherworldly creatures, and metaphysical battles. As he delves deeper into this enigmatic world, he encounters a series of bizarre characters and experiences that challenge his understanding of reality. The novel draws on the mystical structure of the seven mansions of the soul, derived from the work of Saint Teresa of Ávila, to craft a tale that is both intellectually provocative and richly imaginative, questioning the very nature of human progress and spiritual evolution.

    The 3844th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. Six Wakes

    Cover of 'Six Wakes' by R. A. Lafferty

    In a future where cloning technology is commonplace, six crew members awaken aboard a spaceship with no memory of their recent past, only to discover their previous bodies have been murdered. As they grapple with the unsettling reality of their situation, they must unravel the mystery of who among them is the killer, all while navigating the ethical complexities of identity, memory, and the essence of humanity. The narrative unfolds with suspense and intrigue, exploring themes of trust, betrayal, and the moral implications of cloning in a confined, high-stakes environment.

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  3. 3. I Should Be Writing

    Cover of 'I Should Be Writing' by R. A. Lafferty

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  4. 4. Past Master

    Cover of 'Past Master' by R. A. Lafferty

    A sardonic, allegorical science-fiction novel in which a resurrected Sir Thomas More is brought to a future utopia called Astrobe to serve as its 'Past Master' and revive its moral purpose. Confronted with complacency, bureaucratic rot, sexual libertinism and subtle manipulations, he tries to steer society back to meaning, provoking political and philosophical clashes that expose the contradictions of engineered perfection. The narrative blends satire, theological debate and surreal episodes to probe leadership, free will and the impossibility of a flawless human paradise.

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