Off Course

"Off Course" by Mack Reynolds is a science fiction story where Earth is thrown into turmoil by the unexpected touchdown of Dameri Tass, a distinctly unique alien. Initially mistaken for a new military invention by officers Larry Dermott and Tim Casey, the story quickly turns to international intrigue as the alien's presence becomes known. As Dameri Tass learns to talk to humans through the device, he prepares to attend a big presentation at the United Nations, where everyone hopes for a peaceful exchange. But instead, the event becomes chaotic when Dameri Tass reveals he’s just a simple collector from another world. Through witty conversations and funny misunderstandings, the story highlights the ways humans often expect to receive information from the unknown, and how the cultures reflect on what they believe it is to be human or alien.