Parasite Planet

This is a classic science fiction short story by Stanley G. Weinbaum that was originally published in Astounding Stories in 1935. Set on Venus, the story focuses on Hamilton ‘Ham’ Hammond, an American trader who lives in the Venusian Hotlands in the late 21st century. After his home is destroyed he sets out to reach the American settlement of Erotia. On his way he becomes involved in an altercation with Patricia Burlingame, a British woman who accuses him of poaching. Their fight is interrupted though by a Doughpot, a giant blob of plasma that devours everything in its wake including Patricia’s home. The homeless couple decide to travel together until Ham discovers that Patricia has destroyed his bounty of Xixtchil pods. He leaves her but then feels guilty and turns back to follow her. Unfortunately danger is waiting for them both.