The Variable Man (collection)

The Variable Man is a science fiction short story collection by American writer Philip K. Dick, first published in 1957 by Ace Books as one half of an Ace Double. The other half of the double was The World Jones Made.

The collection contains five stories:

• "The Variable Man": The title story, concerning a seemingly random element introduced into a war between Earth and the Centaurian aliens.
• "The Indefatigable Frog": A satirical story about a mechanical frog that is entered into a jumping contest, with unexpected results.
• "The Impossible Planet": An old couple takes a costly trip to Earth, hoping to see the planet of humanity's origin, only to discover it is vastly different from their expectations.
• "The Builder": A community witnesses the mysterious construction of a seemingly pointless object.
• "The Preserving Machine": A scientist creates a device to preserve great works of art and literature from destruction, with unintended consequences.

While not as widely known as some of Dick's later novels, The Variable Man collection represents an early stage in his career, showcasing his developing themes of reality, perception, and the nature of humanity in the face of technological advancements. The stories within explore typical Dickian themes such as paranoia, the fallibility of memory, and the dangers of unchecked technological progress. The collection demonstrates Dick's skill in blending philosophical concepts with engaging and imaginative narratives.