THE LOST SCI-FI PODCAST
Arthur C. Clarke Short Stories
on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast
Arthur C. Clarke is one of the most requested and most listened to vintage sci-fi authors on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast.
Enjoy these amazing stories here, or enjoy them wherever you get your podcasts.
Transience by Arthur C. Clarke a Science Fiction Short Story from the 1940s published in Startling Stories Magazine in July 1949
Though the world may perish, humanity endures. Transience by Arthur C. Clarke—coming up next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast.
Nearly six months ago, we featured Clarke’s first published story, Travel by Wire. Today, we bring you another early work from the legendary author.
The July 1949 issue of Startling Stories boasts a star-studded lineup—Ray Bradbury, Henry Kuttner, C. M. Kornbluth, Margaret St. Clair—and on page 125, we find today’s tale: Transience by Arthur C. Clarke…
Listen using the player below or Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify
At the End of the Orbit by Arthur C. Clarke a Short Sci-Fi Story from the 1940s published in If Worlds of Science Fiction November 1961
A man with a vendetta. A Russian space capsule. A recovery mission near New Guinea that turns into a slow, chilling act of revenge. At the End of the Orbit by Arthur C. Clarke—coming up next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast.
Arthur C. Clarke remains one of the most requested authors on our podcast, and whenever we feature one of his stories, it quickly becomes a fan favorite.
But At the End of the Orbit stands apart from most of the Clarke stories we’ve narrated. Like many tales from sci-fi’s pulp era, it was published under more than one title—you may also know it as Hate. And soon, you’ll understand why.
Originally published in the November 1961 issue of If Worlds of Science Fiction Magazine, turn to page 84 for At the End of the Orbit by Arthur C. Clarke…
Superiority by Arthur C. Clarke a Science Fiction Short Story from the 1950s published in Fantasy and Science Fiction Magazine in August 1951
Arthur C. Clarke returns with a plausible and witty tale of Interstellar warfare, that’s next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast.
We will find today’s story on page 3 of Fantasy and Science Fiction in August 1951, Superiority by Arthur C. Clarke…
The Parasite by Arthur C. Clarke a Short Sci-Fi Story from the 1950s published in Avon Science Fiction and Fantasy Reader #2 in April 1953
Ever done anything for no particular reason at all ? Ever feel as if you were arguing with yourself? Do you sometimes get the feeling that you’re really two people who are at odds over the basic rights and wrongs of life? . . . The Parasite by Arthur C. Clarke, that’s next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast.
Today’s story appeared in the short lived Avon Science Fiction And Fantasy Reader. It was the second and last issue published in the ASFAFR in April 1953. We will discover this intriguing tale on page 119, The Parasite by Arthur C. Clarke…
Travel by Wire by Arthur C. Clarke a Short Sci-Fi Story from the 1940s published in If Worlds of Science Fiction November 1961
Travel by Wire by Arthur C. Clarke—coming up next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast.
Today, you’ll hear the very first published story by a 19-year-old Arthur C. Clarke. This rare gem might have remained undiscovered if not for sci-fi aficionado Jesse Willis. In fact, many of the stories you’ve enjoyed on our podcast come from his vast collection. With over 7,000 downloadable PDFs and more, you can explore his incredible archive at sffaudio.com.
Your 5-star ratings and reviews on Apple Podcasts never go unnoticed. Our latest comes from WillEKY, who writes:
“My favorite podcast. I love this selection of vintage science fiction stories. They are always interesting and entertaining. Narrator and curator Scott Miller does a good job of balancing his own taste for obscure works with popular demand for stories from bigger-name authors. High-quality narration from a former television professional. My goal was to listen to every episode before leaving this well-earned 5-star review, but I realized that the backlog is so deep and the pace at which Scott produces new stories is so steady that it will be a long time before I’m caught up.”
Thank you, WillEKY, for your outstanding review!
And thanks to you, The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast recently became the #1 science fiction podcast in Azerbaijan and Bulgaria. Even more incredibly, we hit #1 for all fiction podcasts in Bulgaria at the same time! Your support, shares, and listens make all the difference—so thank you.
Now, let’s step back to the 1930s. Douglas W. F. Mayer, a sci-fi fan in Leeds, England, played a key role in founding the UK’s first chapter of the Science Fiction League. He also edited three issues of Amateur Science Stories, a publication that gave a young, unknown Arthur C. Clarke his first byline.
Turn to page 9 of Volume 1, No. 2 of Amateur Science Stories for today’s tale—Travel by Wire by Arthur C. Clarke…
Inside the Comet by Arthur C. Clarke a Science Fiction Short Story from the 1960s published in Fantasy and Science Fiction Magazine in October 1960
When George was given the chance to board the Challenger and chase after the most spectacular sight ever to appear in the heavens he could hardly believe his luck, but be careful what you wish for. Inside the Comet by Arthur C. Clarke, that’s next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast.
Arthur C. Clarke needs no introduction, he is one of the most requested authors here on the podcast. From Fantasy and Science Fiction Magazine in October 1960. Turn to page 30, Inside the Comet by Arthur C. Clarke…
Castaway by Arthur C. Clarke a Science Fiction Short Story from the 1940s published in the UK Magazine Fantasy in April 1947
Caught in a storm he is thrown far from home and his very existence is in doubt. Castaway by Arthur C. Clarke, that’s next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast, with at least one lost vintage sci-fi short story in every episode.
In the UK in 1938 a new magazine appeared, Fantasy would publish an issue that year and two the next and then disappear. It reappeared in 1946 with 3 issues over the next two years and, poof, it was gone again, this time for good.
Our story appeared in the April 1947 issue but it was credited to Charles Willis. Almost 20 years later it reappeared in a collection of science fiction stories called Strange Signposts. You’ll find it on page 303, Castaway by Arthur C. Clarke…
Encounter in the Dawn by Arthur C. Clarke a Sci-Fi Short Story from the 1950s published in Amazing Stories June-July 1953
A lot of glib fiction has been written about life on other planets, with space ships dropping down among alien races, zap guns decimating the enemy, while Our Hero goes after a Beautiful Princess. But Mr. Clarke takes the realistic approach. Encounter in the Dawn by Arthur C. Clarke, that’s next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast, with at least one lost vintage sci-fi short story in every episode.
Another 5 star review on Apple Podcasts. This time from Australia, Zapzoom FBC says, “Great. This is a great podcast. The narrator is a great reader. All stories are extremely good.” Thanks Zapzoom and thanks to all of you have who given us a 5 star rating and review this year from all over the world.
Arthur C. Clarke is back on the podcast today with a story of space travelers connecting with, well we don’t want to spoil it for you. From Amazing Stories Magazine in June and July 1953 our story can be found on page 4, Encounter in the Dawn by Arthur C. Clarke…
The Star by Arthur C. Clarke a Science Fiction Short Story from the 1950s published in Infinity Science Fiction Magazine November 1955
A magnificent race had died in that nova. The enigma was: why? The Star by Arthur C. Clarke, that’s next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast, with at least one lost vintage sci-fi short story in every episode.
More 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts. This appears on Apple Podcasts Great Britain and was written by PrometheusUK, “Great stories and superb narration. This podcast is now the one I check first when I want something to relax to each night. The top quality narration really brings the stories to life.. please keep them coming!” Thank you PrometheusUK we will narrate these vintage sci-fi stories as long as we are able and we are hopeful that will be a very long time!
Scallywag Dave in Apple Podcasts Great Britain says, “A Breath of Fresh Air. I love these old Sci-Fi stories, which for me are just the right length to listen to at the end of an evening, and also wonderfully narrated. Thank you for giving these stories a new platform and bringing them to our airwaves.” Scallywag Dave thank you for your review.
Your 5 star review exposes The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast to new listeners around the world. So, thank you. We have this crazy idea and we’re curious if anyone would like to give this a shot. Record a video review of the podcast so we can use it on social media. If you have some of our merch that would be cool to showcase while you’re giving your review. It doesn’t have to be fancy, or perfect, keep it around a minute and have fun doing it. Then send your video to scott@lostscifi.com.
Arthur C. Clarke won the Hugo Award for todays story in 1956. The story was used as part of a Christmas episode of The Twilight Zone in 1985, as TV adaptations go there were changes to the original story. In this case the most noticeable change was the ending was different.
The Star appeared in the very first issue of Infinity Science Fiction Magazine in November 1955 and the story is mentioned on the cover. When you turn to page 120 you’ll find a full page image and the text begins on page 121, The Star by Arthur C. Clarke…
No Morning After by Arthur C. Clarke a Sci-Fi Short Story from the 1950s published in Time to Come: Science Fiction Stories of Tomorrow in 1958
The Supreme Scientist on a planet more than 500 light-years away from earth recognizes trouble when he sees it. Can a representative from this far away planet communicate with an earthling in time to save humanity? No Morning After by Arthur C. Clarke, that’s next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast, with at least one lost vintage sci-fi short story in every episode.
We are so thankful for you and every one of our listeners around the world. Thanks to you our podcast is growing and we are so thankful to be receiving so many emails and comments.
Andre'a, from Melbourne Australia left us this comment on Spotify, “Absolutely love this podcast! The narrator successfully places the listeners into the story every time. Thank you.”
Thank you Andre'a!
Commenting on Slay-Ride on Spotify Tif Lövé says, “That was one psychotic story—loved it! I listen while cleaning house, when tv sci-fi would be too distracting, always great audio short stories. Glad I found your podcast!”
Tif Lövé we’re glad you found us and thanks for your comment.
Commenting on Asteroid of the Damned on Spotify Blergs had this to say, “Amazing, good episode! Thanks 👍 :)”
Thanks to you Blergs!
We’re up to 93 ratings on Spotify with an average rating of 4.9. So close to 100, would you help us get there please?
If not for our friend Jesse Willis, who knows more about vintage sci-fi than anybody I know, there are a lot of stories we narrate that we would never have discovered. This is one of the many. From Time To Come in 1954, No Morning After by Arthur C. Clarke…
Before Eden by Arthur C. Clarke a Science Fiction Short Story from the 1960s published in Amazing Stories Magazine in June 1961
Venus wasn’t the virgin planet Mankind had always assumed. It was simply that we got there too soon. Before Eden by Arthur C. Clarke, that’s next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast, with at least one lost vintage sci-fi short story in every episode.
More great reviews from Spotify, Travis had this to say, “This podcast has become my very favorite, I listen to it every day and look forward to each episode, the narrator is relaxing and one of the best I have ever heard, I cannot wait to hear more!” Thank you, Travis!
Commenting on the Harry Harrison story, The Misplaced Battleship, Tony Wade says, “Interesting story. Top-notch production. A truly great podcast by any measure. The best sci-fi podcast around. Have you done “Nightfall” by Asimov?” Thanks for the awesome review, Tony. Unfortunately, Nightfall by Isaac Asimov is still under copyright which means we can’t record it; however, you will be happy to know that we have more Isaac Asimov stories on the way.
And a little-known fascinating fact about Asimov, when he was a teenager, he idolized author Jack Williamson who we featured yesterday with his story The Cosmic Express. Asimov was thrilled to receive a postcard from Williamson, which congratulated him on his first published story and offered these words "welcome to the ranks". How cool is that?
Our story can be found in Amazing Stories in June 1961 on page 36, Before Eden by Arthur C. Clarke…
The Wall of Darkness by Arthur C. Clarke a Science Fiction Short Story from the 1940s published in Super–Science Stories Magazine in July 1949
“Only Shervane dared to learn the mind-shattering truth of that incredible barrier!” The Wall of Darkness by Arthur C. Clarke, that’s next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast, with at least one lost vintage sci-fi short story in every episode.
Last week was a record for us, more podcast listeners than ever before. We also received more emails, comments, ratings, and reviews. Thanks for your support.
keithstump1712 commented, “These stories are greatly welcome here in the High Andes of Peru during our long winter nights.” Thanks Keith. Stephen sent us an email, “Greetings from Vancouver Island on the west coast of Canada!”
It's been a delight to discover your podcast and storytelling. These stories have been keeping me company on my commute to work. Keep up the wonderful work bringing these old stories back to life and inspiring our imaginations.” Thank you, Stephen.
Arthur C. Clarke has been on the podcast before with “A Walk in the Dark”. Today’s story can be found on page 66 of “Super Science Stories” in July, 1949, 74 years ago. “The Wall of Darkness” by Arthur C. Clarke…
A Walk in the Dark by Arthur C. Clarke a Science Fiction Short Story from the 1950s published in Thrilling Wonder Stories Magazine in August 1950
Fear and misfortune stalk the strange byways of a lonely planet. A Walk in the Dark by Arthur C. Clarke, that’s next on The Lost Sci-Fi Podcast, with at least one lost vintage sci-fi short story in every episode.
Thanks to uncle shaun for his 5 star review on Apple Podcasts! “Just what I wanted! This is a superb Sci-Fi podcast. I love everything about it. Keep ‘em coming!” Thanks uncle shaun, we will.
Today marks the debut of Sir Arthur Charles Clarke on our podcast. Most people know him from the 1968 film 2001: A Space Odyssey, widely regarded as one of the most influential films of all time. Clarke was born in England in December 1917. He said his interest in science fiction began with the November 1928 issue of Amazing Stories magazine at the age of 11, which he read in 1929 after it had been shipped from the United States. Sir Arthur Charles Clarke remembered buying this life changing magazine at Woolworth’s and said, “How I used to haunt that once-famous store during my lunch hour, in search of issues of Amazing, Wonder, and Astounding, buried like jewels in the junk-pile of detective and western pulps!”
Clarke did have some stories published between 1937 and 1945, those stories were published in fanzines. His first professional sale was published in Astounding Science Fiction in April 1946. He was still a member of the Royal Air Force at the time he sold his first two stories to Astounding in 1945. Rescue Party sold first, followed by Loophole which was the first story actually published. Over the next few years his stories appeared regularly in leading pulps, and he always acknowledged them as his ‘launch pad’ to become a writer.
Arthur C. Clarke wrote around 100 short science fiction stories during his career and dozens of novels.
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