The Postman

Gordon Krantz, a drama student from Minnesota, survives a post-apocalyptic world and takes shelter in a postal van, finding a uniform and mail. He adopts the role of a postman, initially to barter for food and shelter, and begins to perform Shakespeare plays to earn trust. His actions symbolize hope and the continuation of civilization amidst chaos.

Krantz wears the postal uniform and begins delivering mail and claims to be a real postman, inspiring trust among small communities. His role is based on the desperate need for symbols of order and civilization after the collapse, initially motivated by necessity rather than deception.

Krantz arrives at a small community where he performs scenes from Shakespeare in exchange for food and shelter. His performances provide entertainment and a sense of normalcy, reinforcing the importance of cultural symbols in rebuilding society.

Krantz encounters the community of Corvallis, Oregon, led by the artificial intelligence Cyclops, which is believed to provide guidance. In reality, Cyclops' functions have ceased, and scientists maintain a false narrative to inspire hope and order.

Scientists maintain the illusion that Cyclops is operational, claiming it offers advice and predictions. Krantz sees this as a manipulation similar to the Delphi Oracle, used to keep the community aligned and hopeful in their fragile society.

Krantz joins forces with Cyclops' scientists to fight against the Holnists, a violent militia led by Nathan Holn’s followers. The Holnists threaten to destabilize the fragile peace and prevent societal recovery after the chaos.

Nathan Holn, a violent and militaristic leader, inspired a militant following before being lynched. His Holnists continue to attack communities and hinder the rebuilding of civilization, embodying the chaos that threatens post-apocalyptic order.

Krantz allies with the Umpqua, descendants of ranchers and Native Americans, led by a former military member. Known for their warrior culture, they have defeated the Holnists repeatedly and are reluctant to help weaker towns before Krantz’s intervention.

The combined forces of the Umpqua tribe and communities prepare to unify against the Holnists. The story hints at the possibility of different factions coming together symbolically, such as the Bear Flag, to restore civilization.

The novel reveals that the world’s fall was primarily caused by Nathan Holn and his militia, who attacked communities and preyed on aid workers, rather than the EMPs, bioweapons, or disasters. This emphasizes the destructive role of human violence in the collapse of society.