"Dark They Were, and Golden-Eyed" is a science fiction short story written by Ray Bradbury. It was first published in Thrilling Wonder Stories in 1949 and later included in Bradbury's collection "The Martian Chronicles." The story is set on Mars, where a group of humans has migrated from Earth due to an impending nuclear war. As they settle on the red planet, they begin to undergo physical and psychological transformations influenced by the alien environment. The title of the story refers to the transformation experienced by the humans as they adapt to life on Mars. "Dark" symbolizes their fear and uncertainty, while "golden-eyed" suggests their gradual assimilation into the Martian landscape and culture. The story explores themes of identity, alienation, and the human capacity to adapt to new environments. It also raises questions about the consequences of colonization and the impact of environment on human behavior. Overall, "Dark They Were, and Golden-Eyed" is a poignant exploration of the human condition set against the backdrop of an alien world. It's one of Bradbury's many works that delves into the complexities of human nature and the unknown.
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