The Ballad of Blaster Bill

Name: The Ballad of Blaster Bill
Author: Nelson S. Bond

A rhymed narrative recounts life aboard a small space freighter where a cantankerous chief engineer and an inept but strong maintenance man repeatedly clash until a rogue asteroid forces crisis. When the ship's crucial motors fail and manual steering becomes the only hope, the maintenance man seizes the wheel and refuses to abandon ship, holding course long enough for the crew to escape but suffering fatal damage. Refrains describe sailors pausing in silence to salute his sacrifice. The poem blends pulp-space adventure, humor, and an affectionate tribute to physical, selfless heroism in the face of technological peril.

By Nelson S. Bond

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About the Author

Nelson S. Bond

Nelson S. Bond was an American author known for his contributions to science fiction and fantasy literature. His works often blend humor with imaginative storytelling, appealing to both young and adult audiences. Among his notable titles is "Shadrach," which showcases his unique narrative style. Bond's writing frequently features adventurous plots and whimsical characters, as seen in works like "Captain Chaos" and "Honeymoon in Bedlam." Throughout his career, he produced a diverse range of stories, including the engaging series featuring Horsesense Hank, which explores parallel worlds and fantastical scenarios. His literary legacy continues to resonate with fans of speculative fiction.