Clarkesworld Magazine

Dive into a world where fantastical design meets dystopian realities. The creator struggles with ambition while crafting giant death creatures, all under the pressure of a looming security breach. Meanwhile, two sisters grapple with their identities in a corrupted society, navigating the emotional terrain of their relationship. Art becomes a beacon amidst ethical dilemmas, making this narrative a rich tapestry of imagination and complex human connections.

Dive into a narrative that captures the protagonist's profound anxiety, blending technology with emotional complexity. Discover the haunting journey of an ex-pilot grappling with war's aftermath and memories of loss. The stories evoke themes of identity and acceptance, painting a vivid picture of struggle and resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges.

Dive into a captivating tale of adventure and nostalgia, exploring the depths of connection in a fantastical world. The protagonist grapples with duty and sacrifice, reflecting on past choices that weigh heavily on their heart. Amidst this struggle, the embodiment of freedom, personified by Buzz, inspires a pivotal decision that promises to alter their destiny. The story blends rich imagery with thought-provoking themes, inviting listeners to ponder the balance between duty and the yearning for liberation.

Dive into the gripping tale of Damien Marshall, a man grappling with his identity in a dystopian world of neural augmentations. Explore the psychological turmoil of a cyborg existence as he faces conflict and trauma on a war-torn Mars. Witness the intense duality of military duty and personal struggle as he confronts both external foes and his own deteriorating enhancements. Amidst chaos in a Martian labor colony, secrets unfold about a powerful augmented super-soldier, hinting at a deeper mission beneath the surface.

In a vivid digital city, a protagonist searches for their missing brother, grappling with themes of reality and connection. The journey weaves through chaotic landscapes filled with nostalgic memories and emotional disconnection. They explore surreal realms, from an underwater bar to a museum of lost memories, confronting the fluidity of identity in a tech-driven world. Amidst haunting echoes of the past, the quest reveals the fragility of human connections and the longing for genuine relationships in an evolving digital age.

Dive into a futuristic world where memories are commodities. A worker in a floating city navigates isolation, longing for family connections while facing an oppressive job. As nostalgia clashes with a haunting present, the protagonist confronts the fragility of cherished moments. Amid poignant reflections at a wedding, the struggle between memory and loss becomes palpable. This narrative explores how the value of our memories shapes our identity and choices, leaving listeners questioning what truly defines our past.

This episode features "Sleeper" written by R.T. Ester. Published in the August 2025 issue of Clarkesworld Magazine and read by Kate Baker. The text version of this story can be found at: https://clarkesworldmagazine.com/ester_08_25 Support us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/clarkesworld/membership

This episode features "And The Planet Loved Him" written by L Chan. Published in the August 2025 issue of Clarkesworld Magazine and read by Kate Baker. The text version of this story can be found at: https://clarkesworldmagazine.com/chan_08_25 Support us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/clarkesworld/membership

This episode features "A Shaky Bridge" written by Marissa Lingen. Published in the August 2025 issue of Clarkesworld Magazine and read by Kate Baker. The text version of this story can be found at: https://clarkesworldmagazine.com/lingen_08_25 Support us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/clarkesworld/membership

This episode features "Hunter Harvester" written by Bam Bruin. Published in the July 2025 issue of Clarkesworld Magazine and read by Kate Baker. The text version of this story can be found at: https://clarkesworldmagazine.com/bruin_07_25 Support us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/clarkesworld/membership