Supertoys Last All Summer Long
By Brian Aldiss
In a future where population control measures are stringent, a mother struggles with her feelings for her artificial son, David, who is designed to love.
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Plot Summary
In a distant future, where overpopulation is a significant concern, and families require permission to have children, David, an artificial boy, lives with his mother, Monica, and his teddy bear. David is designed to love Monica unconditionally. The home they inhabit is technologically advanced, surrounded by synthetic lifeforms, including flowers that never wilt. Despite the advancements, Monica struggles emotionally, feeling disconnected from David due to his artificial nature. David constantly seeks Monica's approval and love, always asking if he's been a good boy. The teddy bear, his constant companion, serves as David's confidant and sounding board. David asks Teddy why he always has issues communicating with his mom. Monica goes into David's nursery and finds letters he's attempted to write to her about how much he loves her. Though there are several, all of them are abruptly unfinished. This causes Monica to burst into tears. Henry, Monica's husband, arrives home. Monica appears and has just been on the phone. She gives him the good news: they've won the parenthood lottery of the week and can conceive a child at once. They see Teddy and David looking through the window at them and grow serious. They aren't sure what will happen to them. Monica says David is having issues with his verbal communication center, and may have to go back to the factory.