I read the French version, which was published in the anthology [b:Utopiales 2016|32655423|Utopiales 2016|Gérard Klein|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1476695805s/32655423.jpg|53228504]. A very smooth read, also in English. But maybe it's best to read it a few times to try to understand it. Who's the sane one? What is true?

You can access the story via Ann Leckie's website: click here. ( )

I'm the sanest man. I clean my basement floor. I've even set up my chair and spend a lot of time in here. I tell you, there is no well in my basement.

Sure, some man told me he was a prince of mars and a great leader of a rebellion and the only way to get back is through the well, but I don't believe him. Really. The universe let him discover a great brick wall.

I don't believe. I don't care who else might believe, like any sci-fi fan or even some fantastical author that might be dreaming me up, I don't believe, and that's fine and good.

So why do I insist on waiting in this damned cellar?

Aside:

This was a pretty cool armchair adventure that felt a little like Edgar Rice Burroughs, except much more concise. The worldbuilding was rather neat for such a short story. ( )