Relic Radio Sci-Fi - "Requiem" by Beyond Tomorrow

Release Date: March 17, 2025
Based on: A famous story by Robert Heinlein
Adapted by: Robert Sanadella
Produced and Directed by: Mitchell Grayson
Music Composed and Conducted by: Henry Sue Burn
Program Consultant: John Campbell Jr.
Featured Voice Actor: Everett Sloan as Dee Dee Harrison

Introduction

"Requiem," featured in the "Beyond Tomorrow" series of Relic Radio Sci-Fi, is a poignant science fiction narrative adapted from Robert Heinlein's renowned story. This episode delves into the relentless pursuit of a dream against overwhelming odds, exploring themes of perseverance, obsession, and the human spirit's capacity to transcend limitations.

Plot Overview

The story centers around Dallas D. Harrison, a 60-year-old man whose unwavering dream is to travel to the moon. Despite his financial struggles and declining health, Harrison is determined to become a rocket pilot and fulfill his lifelong aspiration. The narrative unfolds as Harrison interacts with various characters, including rocket company officials, pilots Captain McIntyre and Charles Cummings, his daughter Jean Win, and his estranged wife Charlotte.

Harrison's journey is fraught with obstacles:

• Financial Barriers: Initially, he struggles to afford a rocket flight, resorting to purchasing tickets for his young son, Jean Win.
• Health Concerns: Medical examinations reveal that Harrison's age and high blood pressure make him unfit for the physically demanding flight.
• Personal Conflicts: His passion for rocketry strains his relationship with his wife, Charlotte, who demands he choose between her and his laboratory.

Undeterred, Harrison seeks the assistance of Delos D. Harrison, a prominent figure whom he believes can help secure his passage to the moon. Despite legal challenges and family interference, Harrison's determination leads him to hijack a rocket to achieve his dream, culminating in a tragic yet fulfilling finale on the lunar surface.

Characters

• Dallas D. Harrison: The protagonist, a passionate and determined man yearning to reach the moon despite his aging body.
• Jean Win: Harrison's young son, who aspires to become a rocket pilot like his father.
• Captain McIntyre: A seasoned rocket pilot who interacts with Harrison and his son.
• Charles Cummings: Another pilot involved in Harrison's journey.
• Delos D. Harrison: Harrison's influential relative, who becomes entangled in his quest.
• Charlotte: Harrison's estranged wife, representing the personal sacrifices made in pursuit of dreams.
• Jason Belden: A representative involved in managing Harrison's financial affairs.

Key Themes

1. Perseverance and Determination: Harrison's relentless pursuit of his dream highlights the human capacity to strive for greatness, even in the face of insurmountable obstacles.
2. Age and Obsolescence: The story examines societal perceptions of aging and the challenges older individuals face in industries dominated by youth.
3. Sacrifice: Harrison's quest strains personal relationships, emphasizing the costs associated with single-minded ambition.
4. Transcendence: The narrative explores the lengths one might go to achieve a transcendent experience, symbolized by Harrison's journey to the moon.

Notable Quotes

• [05:30] Dallas D. Harrison: "I've lived longer than I should, but I don't want to die until I've set foot on the moon."

• [12:45] Dallas D. Harrison: "I want to touch that beautiful thing up there in the sky."

• [28:15] Captain McIntyre: "We take passengers. Got 25 bucks? Yes, we take passengers."

• [45:50] Charlotte: "Choose between me and the laboratory."

• [52:10] Dallas D. Harrison: "I've got to go. I've got to go to the moon."

• [58:40] Dallas D. Harrison (on the moon): "That's the Earth, Mr. Harrison. I made it. I'm on the moon. I'm looking back at the earth."

Conclusion

"Requiem" serves as a moving testament to the indomitable human spirit and the profound lengths individuals will go to achieve their dreams. Through Dallas D. Harrison's tragic yet fulfilling journey, the story underscores the bittersweet nature of ambition and the sacrifices it often entails. As Harrison gazes upon Earth from the lunar surface, his final moments encapsulate the essence of a life dedicated to a singular, unwavering vision.

Final Thoughts

"Requiem" is a masterful adaptation that captures the emotional depth and visionary essence of Heinlein's original work. Relic Radio Sci-Fi delivers an immersive experience, transporting listeners to a time where dreams of space exploration were as vast as the cosmos themselves. For enthusiasts of classic science fiction and compelling human stories, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen to more stories like "Requiem" on RelicRadio.com and embark on journeys through space and time with some of sci-fi's greatest narratives and original tales crafted for shows like Dimension X, X Minus 1, 2000 Plus, Beyond Tomorrow, and more!