Mr. Replogle's dream

"Mr. Replogle's Dream" by Evelyn E. Smith is a science fiction tale set in a future world heavily influenced by machines, yet still clinging to the importance of human art. The story revolves around an art gallery’s grand opening for a mysterious artist named Orville, whose work Mr. Replogle and Mr. Ditmars believe will champion human creativity. Their hopes are dashed when Orville is revealed to be a robot, causing a scandal that questions the value of art in a mechanized world. As news spreads and the wealthy McGeachin weighs in, Mr. Replogle faces his worst fears: a future where machines overshadow human expression. The story shows a society struggling with its dependence on technology and the impact on human identity and artistry.