"'Repent, Harlequin!' Said the Ticktockman" Rating: 4 Planets
by Harlan Ellison  
1965  
Hugo for Best Short Story  
Nebula for Best Short Story  
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Guide		 Further
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Preview
In a totalitarian society ruled by rigid adherence to punctuality, a man disrupts schedules.

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Background Data
Atom BulletIn the commedia dell'arte of 16th century Italy, the Harlequin was the stock character of the conventional buffoon. Traditionally he appeared in a mask and parti-colored tights.

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Navigation Guide
Atom Bullet Describe the society depicted in this story.
Atom BulletContrast the Harlequin's behavior in public and his behavior in private. Of what significance is this contrast?
Atom BulletHow does the Ticktockman react to the Harlequin? Why doesn't he terminate the Harlequin immediately?
Atom Bullet Why does Pretty Alice turn the Harlequin over to the authorities?
Atom BulletIs the Ticktockman a villain?
Atom BulletWho triumphs in the end?
Atom Bullet This story is set in the far future. How does Ellison give you the feeling of being in the 24th century?

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Further Exploration
Atom Bullet The story begins and ends with references to quotations from Henry David Thoreau. Why?

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SciFi Guide
© 2002 Agatha Taormina
Last Revised: January 19, 2005