The Last Letter

"The Last Letter" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction story set in a future controlled by automated communication, where people have almost forgotten how to write personal letters, something that becomes a problem when someone tries to send one. The story features Richard Rowe, a dreamer, who throws the robotic postal system into mayhem by writing a love letter to Jane Dough, whom he just met. His heartfelt letter causes the machines to break down, leading to confusion and the involvement of the authorities, who don't understand why someone would send a handwritten note. In the end, Richard's simple act leads him to find Jane, which brings about a surprising change to their society's cold and unfeeling ways, exploring themes of love and remaining human in a world becoming more and more robotic.