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Pulphouse Short Story Paperbacks #38
The Evening and the Morning and the Night
Also published in
Bloodchild and Other Stories
45 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 1987
7 people are currently reading
2096 people want to read
About the author
Octavia E. Butler
109 books22.8k followersOctavia Estelle Butler was an American science fiction writer, one of the best-known among the few African-American women in the field. She won both Hugo and Nebula awards. In 1995, she became the first science fiction writer to receive the MacArthur Foundation "Genius" Grant.
After her father died, Butler was raised by her widowed mother. Extremely shy as a child, Octavia found an outlet at the library reading fantasy, and in writing. She began writing science fiction as a teenager. She attended community college during the Black Power movement, and while participating in a local writer's workshop was encouraged to attend the Clarion Workshop, which focused on science fiction.
She soon sold her first stories and by the late 1970s had become sufficiently successful as an author that she was able to pursue writing full-time. Her books and short stories drew the favorable attention of the public and awards judges. She also taught writer's workshops, and eventually relocated to Washington state. Butler died of a stroke at the age of 58. Her papers are held in the research collection of the Huntington Library.
After her father died, Butler was raised by her widowed mother. Extremely shy as a child, Octavia found an outlet at the library reading fantasy, and in writing. She began writing science fiction as a teenager. She attended community college during the Black Power movement, and while participating in a local writer's workshop was encouraged to attend the Clarion Workshop, which focused on science fiction.
She soon sold her first stories and by the late 1970s had become sufficiently successful as an author that she was able to pursue writing full-time. Her books and short stories drew the favorable attention of the public and awards judges. She also taught writer's workshops, and eventually relocated to Washington state. Butler died of a stroke at the age of 58. Her papers are held in the research collection of the Huntington Library.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
February 23, 2021
I was just reading this Reddit thread "Does it bother you when you finish a book then don't remember anything from it 6 months later?" yesterday. Soon after I found a PDF copy of this story online and immediately started reading it as I am an Octavia Butler devotee and the title did not ring a bell. It transpired that the bell is in a state of disrepair as I gradually felt a sense of déjà vu while reading this story. It turned out that I have indeed read it as a part of the great anthology Bloodchild and Other Stories (link to my review because that is the sort of black hearted villain I am!). My memory is indeed like a sieve (with a large hole punched in the middle). Since I have gone and reread it and it is a novelette (or “a longish - but not all that long -short story” as I prefer to call them) I thought I may as well wax lyrical prattle on about it a bit.
This story is about a disease called “The Duryea-Gode Disease” (DGD) caused by a cancer treatment drug that leads to a genetic flaw in the children of the drug user that will cause them to lose their minds later in life. The symptoms include extreme psychosis, murderous rage, and self-mutilation, self-cannibalism even. Just about the least fun you can have from a drug (which you did not even take). The main characters visit a retreat for DGD sufferers where they are working on a cure. But sacrifices will have to be made.
“Dad had killed Mom then skinned her completely. At least, that’s how I hope it happened. I mean I hope he killed her first. He broke some of her ribs, damaged her heart. Digging.
Then he began tearing at himself, through skin and bone, digging. He had managed to reach his own heart before he died.”
Well, there goes my lunch.
As you can see, this is not a story for the faint of heart, it is quite harrowing and features deranged people who chew on their own body parts. If you can stomach that sort of thing* it is definitely a good read. Like most of Ms. Butler’s stories, there is more to it than meets the eye. The story illustrates how science can eff us up but the solution is through even more science. Also, what will you give up to make the world a better place?
Note
This novelette can be read free online, I am pretty sure it is all legit, but as I cannot be absitively certain I suggest you google “The Evening and the Morning and the Night PDF”. Bob will then be your uncle if you know what I mean.
* See what I did there?
This story is about a disease called “The Duryea-Gode Disease” (DGD) caused by a cancer treatment drug that leads to a genetic flaw in the children of the drug user that will cause them to lose their minds later in life. The symptoms include extreme psychosis, murderous rage, and self-mutilation, self-cannibalism even. Just about the least fun you can have from a drug (which you did not even take). The main characters visit a retreat for DGD sufferers where they are working on a cure. But sacrifices will have to be made.
“Dad had killed Mom then skinned her completely. At least, that’s how I hope it happened. I mean I hope he killed her first. He broke some of her ribs, damaged her heart. Digging.
Then he began tearing at himself, through skin and bone, digging. He had managed to reach his own heart before he died.”
Well, there goes my lunch.
As you can see, this is not a story for the faint of heart, it is quite harrowing and features deranged people who chew on their own body parts. If you can stomach that sort of thing* it is definitely a good read. Like most of Ms. Butler’s stories, there is more to it than meets the eye. The story illustrates how science can eff us up but the solution is through even more science. Also, what will you give up to make the world a better place?
Note
This novelette can be read free online, I am pretty sure it is all legit, but as I cannot be absitively certain I suggest you google “The Evening and the Morning and the Night PDF”. Bob will then be your uncle if you know what I mean.
* See what I did there?
December 20, 2021
I read this novelette as part of the Dark Matter: A Century of Speculative Fiction from the African Diaspora collection. Easily it is one of the best pieces.
Butler creates a disturbing world, where cancer has been cured by a drug that creates genetic mutations in the users and especially their children. "Duryea-Gode Disease," or DGD, creates obsessive, psychotic behaviors, dissociative states, self-mutilation. It's a terrifying disease, and the care and maintenance of the patients has created an industry that reminds me a bit of John Scalzi's Lock In. Butler is one of my all time favorite authors, and every time I read her I am amazed by her talent. This story is no exception: she is an incredible talent.
Butler creates a disturbing world, where cancer has been cured by a drug that creates genetic mutations in the users and especially their children. "Duryea-Gode Disease," or DGD, creates obsessive, psychotic behaviors, dissociative states, self-mutilation. It's a terrifying disease, and the care and maintenance of the patients has created an industry that reminds me a bit of John Scalzi's Lock In. Butler is one of my all time favorite authors, and every time I read her I am amazed by her talent. This story is no exception: she is an incredible talent.
October 6, 2014
I'm always enthralled by the ethical and philosophical ponderings in Ms. Butler's work, and this is no exception. It has a bit of flavor of Beggars in Spain (or the reverse, since this was written first), and I would have been interested in staying longer in this world.
Read as part of the collection, Dark Matter: A Century of Speculative Fiction from the African Diaspora.
Read as part of the collection, Dark Matter: A Century of Speculative Fiction from the African Diaspora.
April 5, 2022
A fantastic and enthralling tale of biology, genetics, pharmaceutics and personal responsibility vs collective responsibility. Even better in the age of COVID!
February 22, 2023
Plot: 7:10
Characters: 7/10
Language: 8/10
Ideas: 9/10
Enjoyment: 8/10
Overall: 7.8/10
You know it’s good when the story opens up with some #death channel level stuff. Nothing hits quite like the classical wrist cutting followed by the absolutely fire line, “My father… killed my mother, then killed himself.” It was so tragic that it somehow did a 360 and became more comical than anything, and I couldn’t help but giggle.
The story paints a disturbing world where the miraculous silver bullet for cancer turned out to have some nasty side effects: the children of its users develop “Duryea-Gode Disease”, a genetic disease whose symptoms include dissociative states, obsessive self-mutilation, and violent psychosis. A bit of bing bong brain damage, put simply. To add insult to injury, those suffering from a flawed cure, which I must remind that they didn’t even take, face social exclusion and stigmatization as liabilities more dangerous than even maximum-security prisoners. There is also the constant knowledge that their painful demise is inevitable.
Through this world, the story asks interesting philosophical questions about the costs of freedom like whether patients should be banned from having children and end the disease once and for all. The idea makes a lot of sense, but when you realize that good ol’ Hitler had the exact same idea, it becomes a bit less appealing. There is also commentary on the way these undesirable patients are treated. The inhumane facilities reflect the absolute state of insane asylums back in the author’s day, yet little attention is given to these glaring issues by the public.
Pretty cool overall. Liked the gore. The female protag was a little cringe, but I am tragedy.
Characters: 7/10
Language: 8/10
Ideas: 9/10
Enjoyment: 8/10
Overall: 7.8/10
You know it’s good when the story opens up with some #death channel level stuff. Nothing hits quite like the classical wrist cutting followed by the absolutely fire line, “My father… killed my mother, then killed himself.” It was so tragic that it somehow did a 360 and became more comical than anything, and I couldn’t help but giggle.
The story paints a disturbing world where the miraculous silver bullet for cancer turned out to have some nasty side effects: the children of its users develop “Duryea-Gode Disease”, a genetic disease whose symptoms include dissociative states, obsessive self-mutilation, and violent psychosis. A bit of bing bong brain damage, put simply. To add insult to injury, those suffering from a flawed cure, which I must remind that they didn’t even take, face social exclusion and stigmatization as liabilities more dangerous than even maximum-security prisoners. There is also the constant knowledge that their painful demise is inevitable.
Through this world, the story asks interesting philosophical questions about the costs of freedom like whether patients should be banned from having children and end the disease once and for all. The idea makes a lot of sense, but when you realize that good ol’ Hitler had the exact same idea, it becomes a bit less appealing. There is also commentary on the way these undesirable patients are treated. The inhumane facilities reflect the absolute state of insane asylums back in the author’s day, yet little attention is given to these glaring issues by the public.
Pretty cool overall. Liked the gore. The female protag was a little cringe, but I am tragedy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2024
The science fiction story, “The Evening and the Morning and the Night” written by Octavia E. Butler written in 1987 is about a heritable and uncurable disease called DGD (Duryea-Gode disease). Some symptoms of this disease include the desire for self-violence, the inability to control emotions, and the loss of the sense of control of the environment. This story is written in first-person (from the perspective of Lynn). She is fifteen and already diagnosed with DGD. She lost her parents because her father killed her mother and the father suicided. Later in the story, Alan Chi is being introduced, also had DGD, and became friends with Lynn. They had a dark talk about suicide. They then went to the DGD ward to meet Alan’s mother (Naomi Chi). They were guided by Beatrice. In the end, Lynn and Alan decided to stay alive and both try to achieve what they want in the future. The author did a pretty good job of letting us empathize with these two characters because of their deadly disease and tragic life. In addition, I love how Butler introduced us to the characters very early in the story. I find it a bit disturbing. In my opinion, I think the ending is ambiguous. I feel like the idea that the characters had to be separated into DGD wards is like how we must isolate ourselves in our houses during the pandemic. In conclusion, if you want a book that has a bit of terror, this book is perfect for you. I rate this book an 8.75/10.0.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2025
4.5
yo i was LOCKED IN to this short story
shout out jupiter for the rec. they sent me a pdf of this story because i gave them a copy of vicious and they knew this would be up my alley
i will be getting into more Octavia Butler short stories TRUST
yo i was LOCKED IN to this short story
shout out jupiter for the rec. they sent me a pdf of this story because i gave them a copy of vicious and they knew this would be up my alley
i will be getting into more Octavia Butler short stories TRUST
April 26, 2022
Man I really love Octavia's writing. You just can't help but slip into the story she's created so naturally that despite being a 27 page story it got me feeling so much for each of the characters. My favorite author among Ursula and Bradbury. The story talks about a certain disease that people born from parents who have that disease or got the cure for cancer (I think?) and how people will eventually lose control with this inherited trait. I think there's many different ways you could interpret this disease as, but for me personally I related it to mental illnesses the most, whether that be depression, bipolar disorder, autism, and many more as the story showcases the stigma for the story's disease to what we do in society as well(and beautifully done as well).
One of my favorite moments in the story was Alan, his mom, and Lynn's interactions together. To me, it felt like they had finally come to meet together and heal their wounds, open up to each other, something that is often hard to do when you live in a society that shuns the expression of your emotions.
When Alan's mom said that Lynn would keep him safe was so wholesome and would probably move someone to tears.
The Dilg seems like a utopia at first, as Alan and Lynn can't believe these people are actually able of doing something aside from trying to hurt themselves; like they've taken back their life. However, we see this utopia broken by Alan's perspective of the Dilg as well as Beatrice and Lynn's ability to lead people with their scents. It makes us question whether or not these people have truly gained self-control, or were they being manipulated into thinking they did. Just like Alan, I felt some distrust from Beatrice after reading that part.
Here are just some of my favorite quotes that I feel show the powerful yet simple writing of Octavia:
"And remember that some of the people you’ll see injured themselves before they came to us. They still bear the scars of those injuries. Some of those scars may be difficult to look at, but you’ll be in no danger. Keep that in mind."
“Good. No one will close him away from himself."
I would 1000% recommend this to another book nerd.
One of my favorite moments in the story was Alan, his mom, and Lynn's interactions together. To me, it felt like they had finally come to meet together and heal their wounds, open up to each other, something that is often hard to do when you live in a society that shuns the expression of your emotions.
When Alan's mom said that Lynn would keep him safe was so wholesome and would probably move someone to tears.
The Dilg seems like a utopia at first, as Alan and Lynn can't believe these people are actually able of doing something aside from trying to hurt themselves; like they've taken back their life. However, we see this utopia broken by Alan's perspective of the Dilg as well as Beatrice and Lynn's ability to lead people with their scents. It makes us question whether or not these people have truly gained self-control, or were they being manipulated into thinking they did. Just like Alan, I felt some distrust from Beatrice after reading that part.
Here are just some of my favorite quotes that I feel show the powerful yet simple writing of Octavia:
"And remember that some of the people you’ll see injured themselves before they came to us. They still bear the scars of those injuries. Some of those scars may be difficult to look at, but you’ll be in no danger. Keep that in mind."
“Good. No one will close him away from himself."
I would 1000% recommend this to another book nerd.
April 23, 2022
I give this story 100/10, absolutely loved it! Butler's writing is next level period. I think what makes this story/ butler's style of writing special is that she captures the attention of her readers right from the start by getting to the main concept of the story before even introducing any of the characters or the backstory; she then proceeds to slowly reveal the details which answers the questions that initially arise in the mind of the readers which makes the readers feel a sense of satisfaction and a desire to continue reading. I'm pretty sure if she were to reveal the backstory first, I'd treat her writing just like every other author. As for the plot, I'm a huge fan of the simplicity of her story but the complex meaning behind it; I feel this way of writing allows me to connect with the story on a deeper level - making me more engaged and interested. Another thing that makes Butler's writing special is how sophisticated it is, though the words she uses aren't like out of this world, I believe it's the way she phrases her sentences that makes them so satisfying to read. I'd highly recommend this book to those looking for something good to read; not only because of how intriguing the plot is but because it also makes the readers hit a point of realization. This book sheds light on the importance of normalizing living amongst those with chronic illnesses and how we shouldn't view them negatively because people aren't characterized by what they suffer with. As obvious as it may sound, we don't actually realize we subconsciously judge those around us based on how they appear to us rather than based on who they actually are.
May 2, 2022
Adding this book to one of my favorite stories. The writing style is very descriptive and it’s told from the main character’s perspective. Her having with the disease DGDs from both parents allow us to experience the judgments and the pain she goes through. Wee see how the community isolates those with the disease, which is reasonable since they can become out of control and attack others, mostly themselves.
This story is very real and it tackles the issue of stigmas toward those with diseases, similar to the stigmatization of various treatment interventions against substance abuse, which prevents those suffering from accessing treatment. Those with the disease feel so much shame and, even if they did seek help, they would be left to die by their own mutilation. The safe haven for those with DGDs isn’t accessible to all and doesn’t have true freedom.
Overall, I loved this story as it connects with real problems seen in our society. Would recommend to everyone. (maybe over 13 tho, it is very gory and the description of violence is super clear)
This story is very real and it tackles the issue of stigmas toward those with diseases, similar to the stigmatization of various treatment interventions against substance abuse, which prevents those suffering from accessing treatment. Those with the disease feel so much shame and, even if they did seek help, they would be left to die by their own mutilation. The safe haven for those with DGDs isn’t accessible to all and doesn’t have true freedom.
Overall, I loved this story as it connects with real problems seen in our society. Would recommend to everyone. (maybe over 13 tho, it is very gory and the description of violence is super clear)
May 6, 2022
It was a great book, touches on many topics that’s really related to the real world problem. I am now officially become problematical to the point that I can relate to books that’s supposed to be for older generation. Cool.
Speaking of old people, identity seems to be very important. Who you are and who are you not, what’s you and what’s not you. Sometimes I feel like many problems that occurred regards to the identity and wanting to be something. In this book, we can just get rid of those problems by simply just forget about identity, no more making choices and controls, no hope and ambitions. But somehow , there’s still problems within the society.
We still treating people who are different no different than aliens or trash. Even if we’re lack of identity, still, the problems are there. Wanting to be accepted and becomes one of them is really important to humanity. We hates being categorize, but still wanting to fit in. Seems ridiculous and hard to understand, but it is very obvious in this book.
Speaking of old people, identity seems to be very important. Who you are and who are you not, what’s you and what’s not you. Sometimes I feel like many problems that occurred regards to the identity and wanting to be something. In this book, we can just get rid of those problems by simply just forget about identity, no more making choices and controls, no hope and ambitions. But somehow , there’s still problems within the society.
We still treating people who are different no different than aliens or trash. Even if we’re lack of identity, still, the problems are there. Wanting to be accepted and becomes one of them is really important to humanity. We hates being categorize, but still wanting to fit in. Seems ridiculous and hard to understand, but it is very obvious in this book.
January 1, 2019
"I began the story wondering how much of what we do is encouraged, discouraged, or otherwise guided by what we are genetically," Butler writes. And she does that beautifully, hauntingly in this short piece. I am a big fan. Haven't read her in a while (since The Parable of the Sower and the Parable of the Talents many years ago). This reminds me of why I am a big fan. I'll be exploring more of her early novels (The Patternist series; Lilith's Brood...)
December 27, 2015
Full review at my blog
February 21, 2024
"The Evening and the Morning and the Night" is a science fiction short story written by Octavia Butler. The story is about how in the future a genetic disorder called Duryea Gode Disease has emerged, causing extreme mental instability and self-destructive tendencies. These people often end up harming themselves or others.
I like how Butler draws readers into a world filled with chaos and madness, where people like Lynn goes through a setting filled with paranoia and discrimination as she struggles to deal with her genetic inheritance and the stigma of her disease. Butler uses distinct word choices and personalization to convey Lynn’s isolation and sense for belonging.
Butler examines societal attitudes towards those deemed "other" or "abnormal." We see through Lynn how people are treated differently. One of the most heartwarming aspects of the story is when Lynn finds a community of people who also have DGD. They understand her struggles in a way that others cannot, and they offer her the support and understanding she desperately needs. It's really touching to see how they come together to help each other navigate life with this condition. This is how Butler captures the beauty of human resilience and compassion.
What makes this story powerful is this theme of compassion. It reminds readers that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, regardless of their differences and to see the beauty within.
Reading this story made me reflect on my own attitudes towards others who may be different from me. We should all work towards creating a better society where everyone is valued and accepted. It is easy to judge someone based on things that are not normal, but this story reminds us that we should be more understanding and compassionate.
Overall, "The Evening and the Morning and the Night" is a beautifully written story that is both heartbreaking and hopeful, a story that I would recommend.
I like how Butler draws readers into a world filled with chaos and madness, where people like Lynn goes through a setting filled with paranoia and discrimination as she struggles to deal with her genetic inheritance and the stigma of her disease. Butler uses distinct word choices and personalization to convey Lynn’s isolation and sense for belonging.
Butler examines societal attitudes towards those deemed "other" or "abnormal." We see through Lynn how people are treated differently. One of the most heartwarming aspects of the story is when Lynn finds a community of people who also have DGD. They understand her struggles in a way that others cannot, and they offer her the support and understanding she desperately needs. It's really touching to see how they come together to help each other navigate life with this condition. This is how Butler captures the beauty of human resilience and compassion.
What makes this story powerful is this theme of compassion. It reminds readers that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, regardless of their differences and to see the beauty within.
Reading this story made me reflect on my own attitudes towards others who may be different from me. We should all work towards creating a better society where everyone is valued and accepted. It is easy to judge someone based on things that are not normal, but this story reminds us that we should be more understanding and compassionate.
Overall, "The Evening and the Morning and the Night" is a beautifully written story that is both heartbreaking and hopeful, a story that I would recommend.
February 23, 2023
This story, the Evening and the Morning and the Night, published in 1987 by Octavia Butler, is no ordinary science fiction story. The main plot of the story takes place in a future where we have a cure or a treatment for cancer, however, those who took the treatment will have their children with a genetic disease called Duryea-Gode Disease or DGD. Those with the disease exhibit mood swings, violent behavior, and a very sad life, causing them to conflict self-harm. The protagonist of the story is Lynn, a young woman who was born with the DGD. After experiencing a particularly bad episode, Lynn is sent to a hospital that treats DGD patients solely.
(Please don’t cancel me). Based on the fact that Octavia Butler wrote the book like it is from her perspective, we could extrapolate for Lynn to be an African American black woman. Being of any race probably doesn’t change the plot of the story at all, but I find it interesting that she is in the two parts of the community that are treated badly by the society in the story or even in the present. Her, being black and having the disease, it really is interesting how people around her might look and think of her. If it was a white girl with a disease, they might actually try to find her a solution, while it might be different for divergent races.
The story doesn’t seem to address racism, but it does with such issues including medical ethics, identity, and the need for community in a setting where being different can be seen negatively as such of a dystopian society, despite the fact it could be debatable whether it is for this story. Personally, despite it being my second Butler’s story I read; I would say that this is truly a deep-filled meaning story. 4/5 stars.
(Please don’t cancel me). Based on the fact that Octavia Butler wrote the book like it is from her perspective, we could extrapolate for Lynn to be an African American black woman. Being of any race probably doesn’t change the plot of the story at all, but I find it interesting that she is in the two parts of the community that are treated badly by the society in the story or even in the present. Her, being black and having the disease, it really is interesting how people around her might look and think of her. If it was a white girl with a disease, they might actually try to find her a solution, while it might be different for divergent races.
The story doesn’t seem to address racism, but it does with such issues including medical ethics, identity, and the need for community in a setting where being different can be seen negatively as such of a dystopian society, despite the fact it could be debatable whether it is for this story. Personally, despite it being my second Butler’s story I read; I would say that this is truly a deep-filled meaning story. 4/5 stars.
February 20, 2024
“The Evening and the Morning and the Night” (this is seriously the longest book title I have ever seen oh my god) is a science fiction short story written by Octavia E. Butler. It is about a girl named Lynn who lives her life with a disease called DGD that causes her to harm herself and potentially others too in some cases. The story shows themes such as social hierarchy and meaning of life.
At first, I enjoyed the story. I thought the concept was unique and the disease was interesting. I was really hooked, but I was disappointed in the latter half of the story. I don’t know why but it just got so boring. Visiting the main character’s fiancé's mother? Seriously? I thought something interesting would happen, but nothing did! There was no suspense or anything to keep me hooked. I really tried okay, but I just couldn’t focus while reading this short story. It had so much potential. The author could’ve written a way more interesting plot.
Though I didn’t really like the plot, I do love Lynn though. Lynn is the main character of the story. She is what they call a “double DGD” since both parents had the same disease. She, like the rest of the DGDs, is basically treated like an outcast and some sort of monster in society. She hated her life as DGD for how it made her different from others and how her life is almost garenteed to be shorter than everyone else’s. She tried to end her life, but when she saw her parents get killed because of the disease, the sought to find her true purpose in life and continued living to help her forget the tragic fate of DGDs. I really admire her perseverance and resilience.
Overall, I think this is an okay story. I would give it a 3.5 stars, but I’ll round it up to 4 to be nice. :)
At first, I enjoyed the story. I thought the concept was unique and the disease was interesting. I was really hooked, but I was disappointed in the latter half of the story. I don’t know why but it just got so boring. Visiting the main character’s fiancé's mother? Seriously? I thought something interesting would happen, but nothing did! There was no suspense or anything to keep me hooked. I really tried okay, but I just couldn’t focus while reading this short story. It had so much potential. The author could’ve written a way more interesting plot.
Though I didn’t really like the plot, I do love Lynn though. Lynn is the main character of the story. She is what they call a “double DGD” since both parents had the same disease. She, like the rest of the DGDs, is basically treated like an outcast and some sort of monster in society. She hated her life as DGD for how it made her different from others and how her life is almost garenteed to be shorter than everyone else’s. She tried to end her life, but when she saw her parents get killed because of the disease, the sought to find her true purpose in life and continued living to help her forget the tragic fate of DGDs. I really admire her perseverance and resilience.
Overall, I think this is an okay story. I would give it a 3.5 stars, but I’ll round it up to 4 to be nice. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2023
The book “The Evening the Morning and the Night” had been intertwined in the family and illness aspect, a much better pace than the generic alien sci-fi stories. It expands the readers' view into the life of a person who has seen many horrible things and must live and suffer through it. This particular disease is called the Duryea-Gode Disease (DGD), which I had thought was a legitimate disease due to how vividly Octavia E. Butler had described it in the story down to the minute-molecular details of hormones and genetics, it sounded unbelievably real. Hats off to her for that.
The plot feels kind of warm with the strong theme of family contrasting to how much people had suffered from DGD, generation to generation and people to people. It is like the combination of “The Paper Menagerie” by Ken Liu and “Flowers for Algernon” by Daniel Keyes. Ken Liu had the relationship/love aspect between another family individual that was terribly sick, far from a cure whereas Daniel Keye’s story exhibited how the protagonist was different whether it was physical or mental, from others in society and thus having to isolate themselves, hidden from daylight.
The characters in the story experienced lots of development and trauma. Take Lynn for example, from being born from parents with DGD, seeing her father killed her mother and committing suicide afterwards, had a tough time fitting in and isolated herself in the process with attempts of committing suicide herself. We can also see how Alan had visited his mother who was also suffering from DGD too.
With that, I would sum this story with 5/5. Personally, it is one of my favorites so far, on par with “The Paper Menagerie”.
The plot feels kind of warm with the strong theme of family contrasting to how much people had suffered from DGD, generation to generation and people to people. It is like the combination of “The Paper Menagerie” by Ken Liu and “Flowers for Algernon” by Daniel Keyes. Ken Liu had the relationship/love aspect between another family individual that was terribly sick, far from a cure whereas Daniel Keye’s story exhibited how the protagonist was different whether it was physical or mental, from others in society and thus having to isolate themselves, hidden from daylight.
The characters in the story experienced lots of development and trauma. Take Lynn for example, from being born from parents with DGD, seeing her father killed her mother and committing suicide afterwards, had a tough time fitting in and isolated herself in the process with attempts of committing suicide herself. We can also see how Alan had visited his mother who was also suffering from DGD too.
With that, I would sum this story with 5/5. Personally, it is one of my favorites so far, on par with “The Paper Menagerie”.
February 23, 2023
The Evening the Morning and the Night
The Evening the Morning and the Night is a dark story written by Octavia E Butler. I liked how the story captivates the reader by discussing dark topics like suicide and self-harm while also presenting overarching themes through the birth of the DGD disease after the cure for cancer had been made. I thought that this concept was quite interesting as it shows that prevalent problems could always arise in the face of advancements. The story revolves around the DGD from start to end posing questions about the tragedy that must fall upon those who are infected with the disease. Following the inhumane treatment and discrimination they face from society; they must die from self-mutilation or be confined to losing their sense of self which is a dilemma that is presented in the latter parts of the story.
It's also pretty sad that those who have “controlled DGD” are actually talented and have skills for specialized skills, so they just end up becoming more of use for those that treat them horribly while knowing that their ends are inevitable and close. Although I liked the ideas presented in the story, I did not like how the plot was structured as I felt it was somewhat dull and did not utilize the exceptional ideologies to their full potential. The ending was also lackluster and inconclusive which was a pain but that’s pretty much it for the rambling.
Overall, I would say this story is a tad bit better than the average story thanks to the backing ideas behind it. 3.5/5.
The Evening the Morning and the Night is a dark story written by Octavia E Butler. I liked how the story captivates the reader by discussing dark topics like suicide and self-harm while also presenting overarching themes through the birth of the DGD disease after the cure for cancer had been made. I thought that this concept was quite interesting as it shows that prevalent problems could always arise in the face of advancements. The story revolves around the DGD from start to end posing questions about the tragedy that must fall upon those who are infected with the disease. Following the inhumane treatment and discrimination they face from society; they must die from self-mutilation or be confined to losing their sense of self which is a dilemma that is presented in the latter parts of the story.
It's also pretty sad that those who have “controlled DGD” are actually talented and have skills for specialized skills, so they just end up becoming more of use for those that treat them horribly while knowing that their ends are inevitable and close. Although I liked the ideas presented in the story, I did not like how the plot was structured as I felt it was somewhat dull and did not utilize the exceptional ideologies to their full potential. The ending was also lackluster and inconclusive which was a pain but that’s pretty much it for the rambling.
Overall, I would say this story is a tad bit better than the average story thanks to the backing ideas behind it. 3.5/5.
February 19, 2024
This story is truly remarkable because it explores a variety of subjects that are connected to actual problems. In youth, identity, something that seemed unimportant, becomes extremely important. At first, you are the person you are known by, either by name or appearance. But there are complications that come with growing up. You are not just the person known as "Adam" or "Eve." Unfortunately, things aren't always that simple in life. The search for one's true essence turns into a battle. It's no longer clear what makes us unique and what defines us. If the characteristics that differentiate one person from another disappear, then who are we really?
Another main thing with identity is race and sexual orientation. Regardless of color, yellow, white, black, brown, or any other color, people will always find reasons to despise differences. Some of us are still so incredibly ignorant that it makes me wonder if they forgot their brains in their mother's womb, even with the help of technology, which expands and erases the boundaries of knowledge.
Just trying to figure out who we are, how to stand out, and how to be different has led to a lot of issues. In addition, we abuse and mistreat people who have distinct identities just because they are different or because their views conflict with our own. But all of the present issues were resolved by this book. Simply remove that identification. Voila! Problem solved.
Once again, this issue might be too complex. Because losing one's identity not only left people in the same circumstances, but it also led to the emergence of new issues. We hate being categorized, but also hate being identical.
Another main thing with identity is race and sexual orientation. Regardless of color, yellow, white, black, brown, or any other color, people will always find reasons to despise differences. Some of us are still so incredibly ignorant that it makes me wonder if they forgot their brains in their mother's womb, even with the help of technology, which expands and erases the boundaries of knowledge.
Just trying to figure out who we are, how to stand out, and how to be different has led to a lot of issues. In addition, we abuse and mistreat people who have distinct identities just because they are different or because their views conflict with our own. But all of the present issues were resolved by this book. Simply remove that identification. Voila! Problem solved.
Once again, this issue might be too complex. Because losing one's identity not only left people in the same circumstances, but it also led to the emergence of new issues. We hate being categorized, but also hate being identical.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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February 20, 2024The short story the beginning the morning and the night is well written, but bland. It is about a fictional disease called DGD aka Duryea-Gode disease, which is the result of a cancer cure. It is a genetically inheritable disease that causes people to mutilate themselves.
In the story we take the perspective of a woman, who has been inflicted with DGD and had her parents kill themselves. Here the story shows us how the “sick” are treated. People with DGD must take emblems, emblems that identify them as people with DGD, with them. It stigmatizes them and isolates them from normal society, so they must live on their own.
The short story also shows us the failings of the mental health system in our society. It shows how these people, who themselves are struggling, are treated horribly by others. It shows how the mental health care system we have in place for people who are unable to take care of themselves due to the insufficient and often horrific treatments we use for these people.
The writing in the story is great, it is descriptive and really gives the readers a sense of unease, even before the plot twist is revealed. It makes the readers feel like something isn't right. The plot twist is great, explaining the weird properties our protagonist has and is set up throughout the story. It also presents us with a moral dilemma of sorts, which really left me thinking.
Overall, 5/5 great writing, great plot twist, and is really really really important in today’s mental health situation, especially among younger people.
In the story we take the perspective of a woman, who has been inflicted with DGD and had her parents kill themselves. Here the story shows us how the “sick” are treated. People with DGD must take emblems, emblems that identify them as people with DGD, with them. It stigmatizes them and isolates them from normal society, so they must live on their own.
The short story also shows us the failings of the mental health system in our society. It shows how these people, who themselves are struggling, are treated horribly by others. It shows how the mental health care system we have in place for people who are unable to take care of themselves due to the insufficient and often horrific treatments we use for these people.
The writing in the story is great, it is descriptive and really gives the readers a sense of unease, even before the plot twist is revealed. It makes the readers feel like something isn't right. The plot twist is great, explaining the weird properties our protagonist has and is set up throughout the story. It also presents us with a moral dilemma of sorts, which really left me thinking.
Overall, 5/5 great writing, great plot twist, and is really really really important in today’s mental health situation, especially among younger people.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2023
This story is really interesting to me because Octavia Butler’s story sort of plays off the saying “What happens when the cure is worse than the disease.” In this story the cure for cancer becomes worse than cancer itself because anyone who has been cured passes on a genetic trait to their children which causes them to mutilate their own bodies as if attacking an animal. In this story we follow two DGD patients Alan and Lynn who have never had purpose in life until they met each other and are planning to marry. One day, however, they were talking about their parents and what happened to them. While talking however, Lyn finds out that Alan’s mom is alive, so she encourages him to call the place where she is institutionalized to which he did. He finds out that she is still alive and eventually has enough courage to go visit her. When they reach there, they met a woman called Beatrice who is 60 and very tall. Alan is very calm around her, however Lynn is felt repulsed by being in mere distance from her. When they finally met Alan’s mother she was described in the story as being blind because she tear out her eye sockets. Beatrice introduced Alan’s mother to the both of them and let her touch Alan though however when she touched Lynn she seemed to be more friendly towards her than her own son. As they’re exiting the place we get an explanation to why which is that females with 2 DGD parents secret lots of pheromone that can in turn be used to control other DGDs’. I think that this stories plot was interesting at first but towards the end it felt abit drawn out but I really liked the writing in this story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2024
“The Evening and the Morning and the Night” a short science fiction story written by Octavia E. Butler, is somewhat interesting and makes me feel pity. Throughout the book, it shows the suffering of people who have DGD and illustrates social stigmas, illness, autonomy, loss of control, and the harms of isolation and the need for community. The story started with the protagonist getting taken to the hospital due to his DGD disease. When he got home, he cut himself on the wrist, attempting suicide. This disorder is very bizarre and terrifying. It gets even worse when the father kills the mother. The way he killed her is cruel and brutal. For instance, skinning her completely, breaking some of her ribs, and killing himself is just wild. I feel pity for these people since they cannot choose to be born with this order, but people look at them in an unpleasant way and treat them badly as if they were not humans. The discrimination in the story is relatable to the real world, as some people treat people with certain diseases differently. Nevertheless, I also understand that it must be very scary to stay near people with this disorder, like they might kill you anytime. There are more things in this book that I found to be pretty disturbing, as weird events continue to approach as I read through the story. The book is easy to understand,which is good. Overall, I'm giving this book a rating of 4 stars. The book has an interesting plot, but some parts are too disturbing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2022
I absolutely love this story. The premise of the story and the characters are well written. After reading only the first few paragraphs, I already found myself taking an interest in the story. Lynn’s perspective about the things she and other people like her experience is quite relatable, somehow. Furthermore, the disease has quite a few similarities to the mental illnesses that people can develop, and these people need attention. The story portrays society's stigma against these (and any other) minority groups, and I find that this part was very well written. I also find the latter part of the story very thought-provoking. The ‘community’ that Dilg offered to those who had lost control made it seems like it was a utopia, but once you know that it was all thanks to Beatrice’s ability, you start to question if the whole thing was just a facade and in reality, the people there (both the patients and the staffs) are in a way manipulated.
February 12, 2022
My only issue with this story is that I wanted more. Sometimes, though, that's a great way to leave a story that considers the type of ethical and philosophical issues raised here. Instead, I see the continuation of this story in all the fictions about genetic predetermination, illness and disease, and moral choice that follow in Butler's wake.
The Petty:
I've seen a bunch of recent reviews calling out the theme as unoriginal or overdone, obviously forgetting that Butler created this world in 1987 while citing modern fictions 🤦🏼♀️ Idiots. While there were, surely, other stories considering genetics, disease, predispositions and determination (idk, King's Firestarter comes to mind) this work was pioneering in its time and sets the stage for those 'perhaps better done' takes on the issue that benefited from what Butler added to the science fiction gene pool.
The Petty:
I've seen a bunch of recent reviews calling out the theme as unoriginal or overdone, obviously forgetting that Butler created this world in 1987 while citing modern fictions 🤦🏼♀️ Idiots. While there were, surely, other stories considering genetics, disease, predispositions and determination (idk, King's Firestarter comes to mind) this work was pioneering in its time and sets the stage for those 'perhaps better done' takes on the issue that benefited from what Butler added to the science fiction gene pool.
April 25, 2022
An interesting premise with an amazing conclusion.
I will keep this one spoiler free but i did really enjoy it. The start seems quite strange at a glace but as you get into it there are plenty of cracks that lie beneath the surface. The characters are written as if the author has seen the things they've gone through themselves, they feel real. I think the plot is based on a real world issue thaat is cranked up to the extreme and that sense of "somewhat" realism is what brings me back. At first i was confused and even a little grossed out but as I kept reading i never wanted to put it down.
The ending can also be interpreted in a variety of ways which adds to the beauty of this story.
Overall i think it this story is shockingly good and I would recommended it to anyone who can tolerate a little bit of gruesomeness.
I will keep this one spoiler free but i did really enjoy it. The start seems quite strange at a glace but as you get into it there are plenty of cracks that lie beneath the surface. The characters are written as if the author has seen the things they've gone through themselves, they feel real. I think the plot is based on a real world issue thaat is cranked up to the extreme and that sense of "somewhat" realism is what brings me back. At first i was confused and even a little grossed out but as I kept reading i never wanted to put it down.
The ending can also be interpreted in a variety of ways which adds to the beauty of this story.
Overall i think it this story is shockingly good and I would recommended it to anyone who can tolerate a little bit of gruesomeness.
February 20, 2024
"The Evening the Morning and the Night" is a book I enjoyed, and it made me think about many things. The author’s storytelling drew me in, especially how she portrayed characters with unique abilities. What resonated with me the most was how the characters faced discrimination despite their extraordinary powers. It made me reflect on how we treat others who are different from us.
The characters felt like friends, and I found myself rooting for them throughout the story. Their struggles felt real, and it reminded me of the importance of empathy and understanding.
One thing I wished for was a bit more time with the characters at the end. I became so invested in their journey that I didn't want it to end so quickly.
Overall, "The Evening the Morning and the Night" left a mark on me. So, I'm giving this story a 5-star rating.
The characters felt like friends, and I found myself rooting for them throughout the story. Their struggles felt real, and it reminded me of the importance of empathy and understanding.
One thing I wished for was a bit more time with the characters at the end. I became so invested in their journey that I didn't want it to end so quickly.
Overall, "The Evening the Morning and the Night" left a mark on me. So, I'm giving this story a 5-star rating.
April 27, 2022
I like how the story was told and the writing style. As I learn more about the characters, specifically Lynn and Alan, I felt empathy and sympathy— a connection with the characters. I think this keeps me engaged and captures my attention throughout the story. The emotions expressed by the characters were well written which adds on to the depth of the story and makes the story more interesting and captivating.
I think this story kind of reflects the world we live in today (just in a more extreme case). One theme that stood out the most to me is how society treats people with illnesses. Some people views them from their illness instead of their individuality and unconsciously avoid them with prejudice. Some treat patients as an outsider and a group insignificant to society.
I think this story kind of reflects the world we live in today (just in a more extreme case). One theme that stood out the most to me is how society treats people with illnesses. Some people views them from their illness instead of their individuality and unconsciously avoid them with prejudice. Some treat patients as an outsider and a group insignificant to society.
April 26, 2022
Despite being a short story, I believe the premise and the whole world gets explained really well. The world and the characters gets introduced to us slowly but the first few paragraph had already captured me which makes it much easier to want to continue reading. After the exposition ended, I was able to feel attached to the characters.
The sense of hopelessness for a future the characters feels is relatable, even if I wasn't in the same situation as they were. The vivid description of violent actions made me want a hopeful ending for these people. Overall I think this book is able to capture the feeling of despair and hope really well along with having an interesting premise.
The sense of hopelessness for a future the characters feels is relatable, even if I wasn't in the same situation as they were. The vivid description of violent actions made me want a hopeful ending for these people. Overall I think this book is able to capture the feeling of despair and hope really well along with having an interesting premise.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2022
I love the idea of a disease called DGD, an illness that causes people to lose control over their bodies and somehow become like wild animals. Not just that but this illness can be inherited from generation through generation. Ordinary people felt disgusted and pity for these people. Although people who got DGD were mistreated. They still have parts where they find happiness in their life, find partners, and friends. I love the character and his way of telling the story. There was also a part where it get excited, it was when Lyn meet Alan's mother and she didn't really trust the symptoms so she was a little scared of Alan's mother touching her eyes and face.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2024
I enjoyed the premise and it was really cool to see her work on themes that are the basis for her larger work. Her short stories (so far) feel like the training ground or workshop for her most popular and complete pieces. Particularly the device of destructive diseases and their consequences on the offspring, like I see very clearly the parallel between the pyro-drug causing hyper-empathy in Parable of the Sower and the disease-curing drug leading to the self-destructive DGD in this short story. I’m excited to read more of her older work and short stories as each one I read solidifies my understanding of her writing practice. It charts so cleanly.
I’m left wanting a bit by this story being that it’s so short and I’m used to Butlers immense world building. It feels as if the story abruptly stopped. The tempo felt a bit rushed as well like how aid it your first time at this compound and this lady is talking about you running it less than an hour later. Idk. Still cool, glad I read it.
I’m left wanting a bit by this story being that it’s so short and I’m used to Butlers immense world building. It feels as if the story abruptly stopped. The tempo felt a bit rushed as well like how aid it your first time at this compound and this lady is talking about you running it less than an hour later. Idk. Still cool, glad I read it.
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