Unbegotten Child

"Unbegotten Child" by Winston K. Marks is a science fiction novella written during the early 1950s. The story centers around a medical anomaly involving a woman named Sara Caffey, who claims she is not pregnant despite medical evidence to the contrary. This intriguing premise explores themes of reproduction and evolution, questioning the fundamental nature of childbirth and the progress of humanity. The plot follows Dr. Foley, a physician, as he navigates the perplexing case of Sara, who arrives at the hospital convinced of suffering from a tumor. Despite her staunch denials, multiple examinations reveal that she is indeed pregnant, sparking curiosity and disbelief. The renowned surgeon, Dr. Phillipe Sansome, proposes a radical theory suggesting that due to evolutionary changes, humans may be developing a means of asexual reproduction. As Sara's condition evolves, she ultimately gives birth to a seemingly healthy daughter, but the unexpected twist reveals the child is born without a navel, raising further questions about nature, medical science, and the intricacies of life itself. Through clever dialogue and innovative concepts, Marks crafts a thought-provoking narrative that challenges perceptions of motherhood and the biological processes involved.