'Men in the Walls' Summary

William Tenn's 'Men in the Walls' paints a stark picture of a world dominated by alien conquerors. Humans are reduced to a desperate, subterranean existence, forced to live in the insulation of the aliens' homes, their lives consumed by scavenging for food and evading detection. This precarious existence has shaped their society into a starkly divided one, with women holding the knowledge and acting as healers while men, relegated to the role of warriors and thieves, risk their lives to steal from the aliens. Their lives are constantly in danger, as the aliens view humans as vermin, a nuisance to be eradicated. The story delves into the complex dynamics of this oppressed society, their struggle for survival, and their yearning for a life beyond the walls. The narrative explores the themes of resistance, adaptation, and the enduring spirit of humanity in the face of overwhelming adversity. Tenn's masterful storytelling blends elements of science fiction, dystopia, and social commentary, creating a haunting and thought-provoking tale of a humanity clinging to survival in a world no longer their own.