Journey for the Brave

"Journey for the Brave" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction story that explores the inner world of Scotty Johnson, an astronaut on the verge of a monumental mission to the Moon. The tale centers around Scotty's struggle with his own internal insecurities and memories as he prepares for the launch; facing not only the external pressures of the mission, but also his past experiences including a harrowing wartime event. During his journey, Scotty grapples with overwhelming fear and doubt, questions his motivations, and is faced with the fundamental meaning of bravery. Eventually, he shifts from frightened to accepting of his situation, embodying the true sense of heroism as the countdown gets closer and closer.