Of All Possible Worlds

“Of All Possible Worlds” by William Tenn is a gripping mid-20th century science fiction novella that blends time travel, dystopian futures, and moral paradoxes. Set against the backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a deadly epidemic known as the Blight, the story follows Max Alben, a time-traveling operative sent back to 1976 to prevent a catastrophic missile launch. But as Alben navigates a fractured timeline and conflicting futures, he must weigh the cost of altering history against the fate of humanity. With sharp social commentary and deep ethical questions, Tenn’s story is a thought-provoking exploration of choice, responsibility, and the ripple effects of interference.