Beyond the Door, Philip K. Dick: Summary & Analysis

‘Beyond the Door’ is an early work by the renowned science fiction author Philip K. Dick (1928-82) , though not as widely recognized as some of his more famous and complex stories. Nevertheless, it holds a compelling allure that merits deeper analysis. Originally published in 1954 in Fantastic Universe and later included in the second volume of Dick's collected stories, Second Variety , ‘Beyond the Door’ can loosely be categorized as a work of fantasy. Plot Summary The story revolves around a married couple, Larry and Doris . Doris has an affinity for cuckoo clocks, so Larry decides to surprise her by gifting her a German-made cuckoo clock, considering Germany as the birthplace of these timepieces. Unfortunately, Larry inadvertently upsets her by revealing that he bought the clock wholesale, dampening the joy of the gift. As the plot unfolds, it becomes evident that their marriage is troubled, with Doris engaging in a secret affair with a man named Bob . She takes a liking to the cuckoo …