The Chapter Ends

"The Chapter Ends" by Poul Anderson is a science fiction story that considers humanity's relationship with its home world. In the far future, the last people living on Earth must leave because an alien civilization is moving in. Jorun, who helps people get ready to leave, finds himself torn between looking forward and remembering the past. Kormt, the last Earth native, refuses to leave, embodying the strong pull of tradition. As Jorun talks with Kormt and a young person named Julith, he realizes how hard it is to say goodbye. The story shows the heavy feelings of leaving home alongside ideas of progress and letting go, ending with Kormt staying behind, alone, showing the sad but sweet importance of memory and belonging.