"Pale Horse, Pale Rider" is a novella by Katherine Anne Porter, first published in 1939. It tells the story of a young woman named Miranda, who is struggling with illness during the influenza epidemic of 1918. The story is narrated by Miranda herself, and explores themes of love, mortality, and the human experience of suffering.
At the beginning of the story, Miranda is a vibrant and energetic young woman who is excited to be working as a journalist in Denver, Colorado. However, her life is turned upside down when she contracts the flu and becomes gravely ill. Despite the efforts of her boyfriend Adam and her friends, Miranda's condition deteriorates rapidly and she is forced to confront her own mortality.
As Miranda reflects on her life and the people she has known, she is filled with a sense of regret for the things she has left undone and the relationships she has neglected. She realizes that she has taken her youth and vitality for granted, and that she has not truly appreciated the preciousness of life.
Despite her illness, Miranda finds solace in the companionship of a soldier named Randall Williams, who is also suffering from the flu. Williams is a kind and compassionate man who helps Miranda to see the beauty and value in life, even in the face of death. Miranda becomes deeply attached to Williams, and their relationship serves as a source of comfort and strength for both of them.
As Miranda's health continues to deteriorate, she finds herself unable to escape the clutches of death. Despite her fear and despair, she is able to find a sense of acceptance and peace as she approaches the end of her life. In the final moments of the story, Miranda realizes that death is not something to be feared, but rather a natural part of the human experience.
"Pale Horse, Pale Rider" is a powerful and poignant tale of love, loss, and the human experience of suffering. Through the story of Miranda and Williams, Porter explores themes of mortality, the fleeting nature of life, and the importance of cherishing the moments we have. The novella serves as a reminder of the value of life and the importance of living each day to the fullest.