In a dystopian world where emotions are forbidden, Diego embarks on a quest for self-discovery. Pursued by the head dealer, Hinweis, Diego is aided by Rachel, a feeler with her own mission. Together, they uncover the reason why The City was created and the painful past that motivated Hinweis and his twin brother, Houston, to control the emotions of their citizens.
Throughout his journey, Diego discovers his own emotions and what it truly means to live. In the end, Hinweis confronts his own past trauma and realizes that he is capable of making his own choices and is worthy of love. "The 7th Sense" is a gripping tale of self-discovery that explores the fundamental question of what it means to truly live.
If you're looking for a thrilling journey of self-discovery, look no further than "The 7th Sense." This psychological fiction novel takes place in a world where emotions are forbidden and follows Diego as he uncovers the truth about his own emotions and The City's creation. With Hinweis in hot pursuit, and aided by Rachel, Diego discovers the painful past that motivated the head dealer and his twin brother, Houston, to control their citizens' emotions.
In a dystopian world where emotions are forbidden, Diego embarks on a quest for self-discovery. Pursued by the head dealer, Hinweis, Diego is aided by Rachel, a feeler with her own mission. Together, they uncover the reason why The City was created and the painful past that motivated Hinweis and his twin brother, Houston, to control the emotions of their citizens.
Throughout his journey, Diego discovers his own emotions and what it truly means to live. In the end, Hinweis confronts his own past trauma and realizes that he is capable of making his own choices and is worthy of love. "The 7th Sense" is a gripping tale of self-discovery that explores the fundamental question of what it means to truly live.
If you're looking for a thrilling journey of self-discovery, look no further than "The 7th Sense." This psychological fiction novel takes place in a world where emotions are forbidden and follows Diego as he uncovers the truth about his own emotions and The City's creation. With Hinweis in hot pursuit, and aided by Rachel, Diego discovers the painful past that motivated the head dealer and his twin brother, Houston, to control their citizens' emotions.
As Mrs. De Leon gently rocked her baby to sleep, she couldnât help but feel a sense of emptiness. It was only the third day of 2033, and yet the weight of the world seemed to rest upon her shoulders.
As she thumbed through the pages of the newspaper, an advertisement caught her eye. The ad was unremarkable in appearance, with plain black text on a white background. Yet, as she read the words, they seemed to jump off the page and speak directly to her:
âAre you tired of Feeling lost, alone, and disconnected from the world?
Welcome to The City, where technology and innovation have combined to create a utopia where mental health is prioritized. With the latest advancements in science and medicine, we guarantee our citizens a life free from the pain and suffering of their pasts.
Once you arrive in The City, you will undergo a simple yet effective vaccination process that will allow you to start anew in a world of serenity. We structure our daily routines to keep you content; with no room for questioning, youâll be able to focus on what truly matters: living a fulfilling life in a world where art and Feelings are unnecessary.
Join us today and start living a life you never thought possible. Apply now and be a part of the change. Be a part of The City.â
âHoney, have you heard about The City? I think it could be just what we need to get back on track.â
Her husband raised an eyebrow. âThe City, you say?â
âI really think it could help us. I want to feel like I did when we first met,â Mrs. De Leon pleaded with her husband. âPlease, just consider it.â
Her husband sighed and looked at her underneath his bushy eyebrows. âOkay, Iâll think about it.â
As Mrs. De Leon held her sleeping baby close, she couldnât shake the Feeling that The City held the key to reviving their once-great love.
As the De Leon family stepped off the train, they found themselves in the middle of a tropical paradise. The warm sun beat down on their skin as they looked around in awe. Ahead of them was a massive white bridge that seemed to shimmer in the light, stretching high into the sky.
They approached, eager to cross over into The City. But as they got closer, they realized they werenât going anywhere yet. A massive metal gate blocked the entrance, and they could see guards standing at either side, their faces obscured by dark glasses.
âThis is it,â said Mrs. De Leon. âWeâre almost there.â
The minutes ticked by, and Mrs. De Leon fidgeted nervously, her hands clutching her guitar case. Just when she was about to ask the guards what was going on, the gate lifted. Everyone stepped back as the bridge shook and hummed to life, carrying them forward into The City. It was a sprawling metropolis with towering skyscrapers that rose into the sky and bright lights that shone like stars. Finally, they reached the other side and stepped off onto a wide, white path. Ahead of them, they could see an official waiting, his white uniform crisp and clean. His head was crowned with a mass of white, curly hair that bounced with every movement he made. Despite his young age, the boy exuded an air of authority and confidence that belied his years.
Mrs. De Leon cleared her throat and tapped him on the shoulder. âExcuse me, young man,â she said, her voice barely above a whisper. âI couldnât help but notice that you seem quite young to be working. Do your parents know about this?â
The boy paused his work, looked up at her, and met her gaze with a calm expression. âYes, maâam,â he replied, his voice low and measured.
Mrs. De Leon raised her eyebrows in surprise, intrigued by the boyâs self-possession. âReally?â she prodded.
The boy straightened his back, his shoulders squared with pride. âAge doesnât matter,â he said, his voice rising with conviction. âWhat matters is what you want. And I believe in The City, in the rules.â
He gestured towards the sprawling city behind him, a hint of pride creeping into his voice. âThe City has given me opportunities, maâam,â he said. âIâm training to be a Dealer, you know.â He forced a smile onto his face, but she could see the weariness etched into his young features.
Her eyes were drawn to a shadowy figure standing at the edge of the square. The man was tall and slender, his face obscured by the darkness. He stood motionless, his gaze fixed on the boy with an intensity that made her skin crawl. As she watched, the man took a step forward, his movements graceful and fluid.
She looked over at the boy, wondering if he was aware of the manâs presence, and his hands shook slightly. But then he seemed to gather himself and went back to his blank stare, his expression becoming emotionless once more.
She scanned the crowd, but the man had faded back into the shadows.
âWelcome to The City,â the boy-official said, his voice back to its cool and emotionless tone. âPlease follow me.â
He handed them each a packet of information and directed them to the vaccination center.
He preceded them on the way to the vaccination tents, his coat swinging in the light breeze. He started walking backwards and tapped the name tag on his coat.
âName is Diego,â he said.
Flying ads zipped past them, and the sounds of the advertisements blended together in a cacophony of voices. Despite the busy crowds of people walking the streets, there was a sense of emptiness and detachment, everyone moved in a precise and efficient manner, their faces expressionless.
As she watched the surrounding people, Mrs. De Leon realized they were all plugged into their personal devices. She held her baby close as she watched a man stumble towards a dispenser.
She turned to Diego. âWhat is that man getting?â
âAh, thatâs just an addict,â the boy replied nonchalantly. âHeâs about to get his dose of F23. Itâs this drug that has been approved for commercialization ten years ago. Itâs a synthetic Feeling that some people canât seem to live without.â
He shrugged and gave the man a condescending look as he inserted his payment into the dispenser and received his pill. âDonât worry. Once you receive your vaccination, you wonât even think of it. F23 is for the crazy ones that need a reminder of our purpose. Anyway, it is strictly regulated.â
As they neared the vaccination center, she clutched her guitar tightly to her chest. The boy approached her, his hand outstretched.
âMaâam, Iâll have to take that from you,â he said, gesturing towards her guitar.
âNo,â Mrs. De Leon wrapped her fingers tighter around the neck and replied, âIâve had this guitar for years.â
The boy provided a crooked smile. âYouâll give it up willingly soon enough.â
As Mrs. De Leon watched, her baby was vaccinated. The process was quick and seemingly painless, but as the vaccine took effect, the babyâs face went blank.
âItâs just a simple vaccination, Mrs. De Leon,â Diego said, sensing her discomfort. âItâs for your own good. And think about your baby; imagine a life where they never have to experience heartache. Maybe youâll find solace in knowing it wonât be sad when you evidently die.â
The words echoed in Mrs. De Leonâs mind. He has a point. But not my guitar. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart.
Diego ushered her towards a seat and looked her in the eye as he said, âNow is the time to ask questions.â You wonât have any afterwards.
Mrs. De Leon stood still. As the steel gun left its mark on her left hand, a sense of detachment washed over her, leaving her with a void that The City promised to fill. When the official walked her out of the vaccination center, she found her husband waiting, a smile off his face with their baby under his arm.
He looked at her, then at her guitar, and nodded his approval. âI think itâs for the best,â he said, taking her hand. âWeâll be okay. I can already feel it.â
Mrs. De Leon looked down at her hand, where the circular mark rested, and then at her guitar. She could feel herself letting go, her fingers slowly uncurling from around the neck.
âYes,â she said, âI think youâre right.â
She was finally a part of The City, and, just like Diego, she was okay.
She watched as he placed her guitar on top of a pile, his muscles flexing as he hoisted the heavy instrument into place. The pile was a hodgepodge of items, ranging from clothing and household goods to books and personal mementos. Each object seemed to carry a story of its own, a memory or a piece of someoneâs past.
âFollow me.â
The officialâs words hung in the air for a moment before Mrs. De Leon realized he was gesturing towards a small, sleek-looking vehicle parked nearby. It was compact, with smooth lines and a metallic finish that gleamed in the light. There were no visible controls or steering mechanisms, just a series of screens and sensors that seemed to hum with energy.
As the De Leon family rode in the driver-less golf cart, they took in their surroundings in a daze. The City was a technological marvel, from the smooth, clean roads to the perfectly manicured parks. The tall and gleaming buildings were a stark contrast to the warm, inviting homes they had left behind, their surfaces reflecting the bright lights of the flying ads that constantly buzzed overhead. The streets were pristine and orderly. The only sounds were the hum of the golf cart and the occasional announcement from a flying ad drone.
The family sat in silence.
As they approached their assigned home, the official who had greeted them at the station spoke. âYouâll find that your daily schedule has been pre-arranged for you,â he said, âThis will ensure maximum efficiency and satisfaction.â
He handed them each a tablet with a detailed schedule, including designated times for work, leisure activities, and mandatory news broadcasts.
âWork hours are from 9 am to 5 pm. During your leisure time, youâll have the option to take part in various activities such sports, sports, and sports.â
The De Leon family stepped out of the car.
They were in the middle of a neatly manicured neighborhood, surrounded by identical buildings. As they entered their assigned apartment, Mrs. De Leon couldnât help but feel a sense of emptiness. The furniture was bland, and the walls were a sterile white. It felt like a hospital room, not a home.
âYouâll sleep it off. Tomorrow the vaccine will be fully operational.â
The De Leon family nodded, still in a daze.
âWe posted your apartment number on the door, and youâll find your dinner inside, ready to be heated. And donât forget, itâs almost 8 p.m. News Time.â
âNews Time?â Mrs. De Leon asked, her voice robotic.
âYes,â the official replied. âEvery citizen must watch the news broadcast at 8 p.m. every night. The TV tracks your eyes. Thank the Gods, if you donât watch for over 30 seconds, youâll be flagged and Dealers will come to make sure you are safe and havenât been contaminated. Itâs all written down in your City Guides for the days youâll forget.â
Mrs. De Leon looked down at her hand and ran her finger over the circular mark.
The official continued, âRemember, thereâs no need for conversation. Just eat and watch. Youâll be informed about whatâs happening in The City.â
âWhat about art?â Mrs. De Leon asked, her voice devoid of emotion.
Diego looked at her blankly and for a moment he looked like the nine-year-old he was. âArt is unnecessary here. And so are questions.â
She nodded and followed her husband into the house. They found the pre-made meals in the refrigerator and heated them in the microwave, as the official had instructed.
At exactly 8 p.m., the TV turned on. On the screen, three âactorsâ were having dinner. They were obviously not chewing the food or properly putting the fork in their mouths. And then the act started. Their voices raised and insults fused. âYou are just a leaf blower!â âArenât you a rotten apple!â Their faces remained unchanged. This ordeal continued for a full minute before Hinweisâ face appeared once again. âIn The City, your meals are quiet.â
The screen went black.
3, 2, 1,⌠News Time!
They sat at the table in silence, eating.
Later that night, Mrs. De Leon stood at the window, staring out into The City. The lights that had previously illuminated the streets now flickered off one by one. 10 p.m. Curfew time.
As she gazed at the darkened city, she realized she could not stargaze; the flying ads blocked her view of the stars, and for a moment, she wondered what it would be like to experience that again. Just then, trucks drove through the streets, collecting what appeared to be bags.
A drone silently hovered above The Cityâs skyline, projecting a holographic image of a small pill labeled âF23â in bold letters.
The message begun:
âWelcome to F23, the ultimate solution to your emotional needs.â
The image shifted to a personâs face, showing them smiling and laughing as they took the pill.
The voice-over continued: âWith F23, you can finally experience the joy and happiness youâve been missing, and itâs all within your reach. Our specially engineered pill provides you with two minutes of pure bliss.â
The image changed to a serene garden, birds chirping, and a warm breeze blowing as the voice-over continued: âImagine yourself in a beautiful garden, surrounded by the vibrant colors of nature. With F23, you can experience the true depth of lifeâs beauty, all within the safety of your own mind.â
The image abruptly changed to a person looking sad, and the voice-over intoned: âBut be warned: with every dose of F23, the risk of experiencing extreme sadness increases. Follow the dosage guidelines, with only five pills per month.â
The image then faded, and the drone disappeared into the night sky.
She turned away from the window; her gaze falling on her sleeping baby. The AI nanny moved with a fluid grace, its metallic limbs working in perfect synchronization as it tended to the childâs needs. Its sensors whirred and beeped softly, like a symphony of electronic instruments playing a soothing melody. Her baby had not cried the entire day, at ease just like all the other babies in The City. With a small shrug, she made her way to her own bed.
âIs this what life is now?â she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Out of all the dystopian novels I have ever read, I have never come across an idea like this. The Seventh Sense takes place in the near future where the luckiest citizens live in The City, a place created in response to the mental health crisis. In The City, newcomers are given treatment that blocks their ability to feel emotion. This ideology is continued when children attend school: "Suppress your emotions. Suppress your questions. Obedience is key" (pg. 32). Diego has spent a large portion of his life working alongside those that perpetuate this system. Everything is working perfectly until it isn't. A new drug manufactures the ability to Feel, and it has created an epidemic. Citizens are overdosing in the street, and the system starts to break down. Diego must fight to restore the natural order, undo the damage he's caused as a part of the system, and fight his own indoctrination.
I cannot congratulate the author enough on the originality of this idea. The characters are well-developed as they all struggle to work through their own issues and save the community they have created. At first, The City seems like the answer to everyone's problems. But is it really such a blessing to avoid all emotion? For years, this environment has been touted as a solution. No one even questions whether or not the system is working, because no one is allowed to question anything. As they work to save themselves and each other, old pain and regrets must be confronted, including the painful past of the founders of The City. The author dives into this portion of the story while displaying compassion, empathy, and an understanding that no one is all good or all bad.
Very minor editorial issues exist, but in no way do they distract from the story.
I would absolutely recommend this story to anyone who enjoys dystopian fiction. I would also recommend it to anyone entertaining the idea that sometimes it's easier to not feel anything. As the author notes, "To deny them [emotions] is to deny a fundamental part of who you are, who everyone is" (pg. 180).