The Mind Digger

"The Mind Digger" by Winston K. Marks is a science fiction story from the 1950s that considers the captivating and uneasy ideas around memory and what it means for both creativity and personal identity. The book follows Hillary Hardy, a talented young writer, as he tries to remember everything from his past using experimental treatments, with shocking and intense outcomes. Initially, Hardy’s success takes off when he sells his play, "Updraft," to producer George Crocker. As Hardy’s fame increases and he becomes a successful writer, he commits himself to memory experiments, wanting to remember everything from the beginning of his life. While this helps his art in the beginning, it also makes him relive painful moments with strong emotions. As a result, his writing becomes agonizing, leading to a mental breakdown. The end of the story shows the risks of confusing memories with reality, and questions what happens when one tries to use the full power of their mind.