The Long Tomorrow summary

The Journey of Two Cousins in a Post-Apocalyptic World

In The Long Tomorrow by Leigh Brackett, we are introduced to a post-apocalyptic world where a nuclear war has destroyed most of civilization. The story follows two cousins, Len and Esau, who live in a small, technophobic community in the Midwest. The community is governed by strict religious beliefs that prohibit the use of advanced technology, and any community that grows beyond a certain size is destroyed to prevent the re-emergence of the pre-war society.

Len and Esau, however, are fascinated by the stories of a hidden city called Bartorstown, where technology is not only allowed but is also thriving. They dream of escaping their oppressive community and finding this city. After a tragic event, they decide to leave their home and set out on a journey to find Bartorstown, despite the dangers and the possibility of being exiled or killed if they are caught.

The Struggles and Discoveries Along the Way

As they travel, Len and Esau encounter various communities, each with its own way of life and beliefs. They face numerous challenges, including harsh weather, dangerous animals, and hostile people. They also struggle with their own beliefs and fears, as they question the teachings of their community and the existence of Bartorstown.

During their journey, they meet a man named Mord, who claims to have been to Bartorstown. He tells them about the city's advanced technology and the freedom its inhabitants enjoy. However, he also warns them about the city's isolationist policies and the potential dangers of revealing its existence to the outside world.

The City of Bartorstown and Its Secrets

After many hardships, Len and Esau finally reach Bartorstown. They are amazed by the city's advanced technology and the freedom its inhabitants enjoy. However, they soon realize that Mord's warnings were not unfounded. The city is ruled by a small group of people who control all the technology and keep the rest of the population in ignorance and servitude.

Len and Esau are torn between their desire to live in a society that embraces technology and their moral obligation to help the oppressed citizens of Bartorstown. They eventually decide to leave the city and return to their community, hoping to use their knowledge to improve the lives of their people without repeating the mistakes of Bartorstown.

The Return and the New Beginning

When they return, Len and Esau are faced with suspicion and hostility from their community. They are accused of being contaminated by the outside world and are sentenced to exile. However, their experiences have changed them, and they refuse to accept their fate. They manage to convince some of their friends to join them, and together they start a new community based on the principles of freedom, equality, and responsible use of technology.

In conclusion, The Long Tomorrow is a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between technology, society, and individual freedom. It raises important questions about the dangers of blind adherence to tradition and the responsible use of advanced technology. The story of Len and Esau's journey serves as a cautionary tale and a hopeful vision of a better future.