Before "The Stand" there was,..... [View all]

“Night Surf" is a post-apocalyptic short story by Stephen King, first published in 1969. It is a precursor to his novel The Stand, focusing on a group of teenagers who have survived a devastating plague called "Captain Trips". The story depicts their descent into nihilism and barbarism as they gather on a beach, reflecting on the world before the outbreak and engaging in a cruel, ritualistic act.

Plot: The story follows a group of teenagers on Anson Beach, New Hampshire, who are among the few survivors of a super-flu that has wiped out most of the world's population. They have a sinister, almost beast-like nature, having recently abducted and burned a dying man as a human sacrifice. The protagonist, Bernie, reflects on the "time before" and the loss of humanity.

Themes: The story explores themes of despair, nihilism, and the loss of humanity in the face of apocalypse. It shows how the survivors have surrendered their moral strength and are on the verge of madness.

Connection to The Stand: King has stated that "Night Surf" gave him the idea for The Stand. The story is a condensed version of the initial events of the novel, focusing on the survivors' psychological state and their descent into a new, cruel world.

Publication: "Night Surf" was first published in the spring 1969 issue of Ubris magazine. A revised version appeared in Cavalier magazine in 1974, and it was later collected in King's 1978 short story collection, Night Shift.

"Night Surf" was first published in the spring 1969 issue of Ubris magazine. A heavily revised version was published in the August...