Under Compulsion

Under Compulsion is a 1968 collection of science fiction short stories by Thomas M. Disch, published in the UK by Rupert Hart-Davis and later released in the US as Fun with Your New Head. The collection contains seventeen distinct stories that were originally featured in various magazines including Fantasy and Science Fiction, New Worlds, and Playboy. Each story stands as a self-contained narrative, exploring different aspects of science fiction and speculative concepts. The tales range from encounters with mysterious creatures to examinations of future technologies and social structures, maintaining variety in both subject matter and tone throughout the collection. The book demonstrates Disch's characteristic ability to blend science fiction elements with psychological and social commentary. His stories examine human nature and societal structures through the lens of speculative scenarios, often incorporating elements of dark humor and suspense.

Readers describe these science fiction short stories as dark, psychological tales that examine human nature and societal control. The book appears to have limited online reviews and readership. Readers appreciated: - The experimental narrative approaches - Complex psychological themes - Disch's literary style and imagination - The dystopian elements in several stories Common criticisms: - Some stories feel dated - Writing can be dense and difficult to follow - Uneven quality across the collection - Several stories end abruptly Review Sources: Goodreads: 3.67/5 (12 ratings, 2 reviews) Amazon: No current reviews available From individual readers: "Stories range from brilliant to baffling" - Goodreads reviewer "The psychological horror elements work better than the sci-fi aspects" - LibraryThing user "Requires close reading but rewards the effort" - SF forum comment Note: Limited review data available online for this 1968 collection, which was later republished as "Fun with Your New Head"

Dangerous Visions edited by Harlan Ellison This groundbreaking anthology from 1967 shares Disch's experimental approach to science fiction and psychological themes through provocative short stories from multiple authors.

The Crystal World by J. G. Ballard Ballard's novel about crystallization overtaking the world combines psychological exploration with surreal transformation in ways that mirror Disch's blend of inner and outer space.

334 by Thomas M. Disch This interconnected collection of stories set in a future New York City extends the psychological and social themes found in Under Compulsion.

The Fifth Head of Cerberus by Gene Wolfe Three interconnected novellas explore identity and memory through science fiction concepts, matching Disch's interest in psychological complexity within speculative frameworks.

Her Smoke Rose Up Forever by James Tiptree Jr. This collection brings together stories that examine human nature through science fiction scenarios, sharing Disch's focus on psychological insight and social commentary.

🔸 The book's original UK title was "Can You Feel Anything When I Do This?" - a more playful name that highlights Disch's talent for dark humor in serious situations. 🔸 Thomas M. Disch was also an acclaimed poet and theater critic, winning the Naylor Prize for poetry in 1965, showcasing his versatility across literary forms. 🔸 The collection was published during the New Wave science fiction movement (1960s-70s), which emphasized literary experimentation and psychological depth over traditional sci-fi tropes. 🔸 Several stories from this collection have been adapted for television, including "The Roaches" which appeared on the series "Tales from the Darkside." 🔸 Disch's work heavily influenced cyberpunk literature, with fellow author Bruce Sterling citing him as one of the genre's most important predecessors.