Inside John Barth

"Inside John Barth" by William W. Stuart is a science fiction story from the mid-20th century that follows John Barth, a man who learns he's actually housing a group of tiny aliens trying to survive. The story explores what it means to be yourself and have control over your life, along with the idea of what makes someone happy, as Barth struggles with being both an individual and a home for these creatures. He goes through life successful and healthy, but he starts to understand that the aliens inside him are influencing him. As he gets involved with women, he feels bad, knowing the aliens are messing with his feelings. The story gets intense when Barth meets Julia, who is also hosting a colony, which leads to a sad series of events that finally gives Barth his freedom, but at a great personal sacrifice. Stuart makes you think about what it really means to be an individual and what people are willing to give up to belong and find happiness.