Infinite Worlds Within: AuDHD Resonance in 'He Who Shrank'
Given my illiteracy as a child, I loved engaging with comics at my local and school libraries. The visual storytelling and imaginative tales held a special allure for me, offering a gateway into worlds I couldn’t yet access through text. Today, I was remembering a story about atoms and an infinitely shrinking man that captivated my imagination back then. This memory sent me on a deep dive to rediscover it. In the early 70s, libraries still carried a treasure trove of anthologies and comics from the 50s and 60s, many of which featured speculative fiction and science stories that fed my curiosity.
Eventually, I found the story I was searching for: "He Who Shrank" by Henry Hasse. This classic tale, published in Amazing Stories in 1936, follows a protagonist who embarks on a journey into subatomic universes, discovering worlds nested within worlds in an infinite regression. Its premise is captivating, blending science fiction with existential wonder. Hasse was a significant figure during the golden age of science fiction, though much about his personal life remains a mystery. Despite his relatively modest literary output, “He Who Shrank” has endured as a compelling exploration of the unknown.
What strikes me most about this story, revisiting it now, is how its themes and narrative structure seem to align with traits often associated with AuDHD—autistic individuals who also have ADHD. The meticulous attention to detail, boundless imagination, and philosophical depth all resonate strongly with neurodivergent ways of thinking. For readers like me, who experience the world through a lens of intense curiosity and pattern recognition, “He Who Shrank” offers not just a journey through the subatomic but a mirror reflecting the intricate workings of the mind itself. This profound resonance with neurodivergent ways of thinking invites deeper curiosity about the mind behind the story. Who was Henry Hasse, and what might his life reveal about the creative and philosophical depths of his work?
The Mystery of Henry Hasse
Henry Hasse remains something of an enigma in the history of science fiction. Despite the enduring impact of his work, particularly “He Who Shrank,” little is known about his personal life or family. Born in 1913 and active during the golden age of pulp magazines, Hasse contributed a handful of memorable stories, but his career never reached the heights of contemporaries like Asimov or Heinlein. He worked alongside Ray Bradbury on the short story Pendulum and left behind a legacy of inventive, speculative narratives, yet his biography is sparse. Without substantial records or personal accounts, we are left to infer much about the man from the work he produced.
Whilst there is no evidence that Hasse was neurodivergent, revisiting “He Who Shrank” reveals patterns in his storytelling that strongly resonate with traits often associated with AuDHD minds. The story’s obsessive attention to detail mirrors the deep dives that autistic individuals often experience when exploring their areas of interest. The protagonist’s infinite shrinking into subatomic worlds, each teeming with complexity and interconnectedness, could be seen as a metaphor for the autistic tendency to dissect and understand systems on increasingly granular levels. The narrative structure itself feels almost fractal, reflecting a neurodivergent fascination with recursion and the relationships between microcosms and macrocosms.
Hasse’s boundless imagination, as displayed in this story, aligns closely with ADHD traits. The concept of worlds within worlds showcases a creative mind that leaps effortlessly between expansive ideas while maintaining a cohesive thread. The protagonist’s journey is both philosophical and scientific, blending curiosity with a sense of wonder that feels deeply intrinsic to ADHD’s exploratory nature. Additionally, the emotional weight of the story—the protagonist’s growing isolation as he ventures further from the familiar—resonates with the autistic experience of otherness and the struggle to connect with a world that often feels alien.
It is important to note that this analysis is not a diagnosis but rather an exploration of how Hasse’s storytelling aligns with neurodivergent thought patterns - in my humble opinion. The qualities that shine through in “He Who Shrank”—its layered complexity, imaginative leaps, and existential themes—offer a lens through which we might speculate about the kind of mind capable of crafting such a story. Whether or not Hasse himself was neurodivergent, his work speaks to the richness and depth of thought often associated with AuDHD perspectives. These qualities are not merely abstract concepts; they are vividly encoded in the story itself. To appreciate how deeply “He Who Shrank” resonates with neurodivergent thought patterns, let us delve into the themes that make this tale feel uniquely attuned to AuDHD experiences.
AuDHD Coding in “He Who Shrank”
“He Who Shrank” resonates profoundly when viewed through the lens of AuDHD ways of being. Its narrative structure and themes seem coded with characteristics often associated with autistic and ADHD thought patterns, creating a story that feels uniquely attuned to neurodivergent experiences. Here’s a detailed exploration of how, in my opinion, the story reflects these traits:
The story’s recursive journey through nested universes mirrors the deep focus and layered exploration often seen in autistic individuals. The protagonist’s shrinking takes him into increasingly smaller realms, each a world unto itself, teeming with unique life forms, ecosystems, and systems of organisation. This process reflects the autistic tendency to dive deeply into a subject of interest, peeling back layer after layer to uncover its complexities. Much like the protagonist, who continually discovers new levels of existence, an autistic deep dive often reveals how intricately everything is connected, from the minute details to the larger framework. For readers with such a mindset, this narrative is not only relatable but also affirming in its validation of that endless curiosity.
The boundless imagination and divergent thinking in the story reflect ADHD traits, particularly the ability to think creatively and explore ideas in nonlinear ways. The concept of infinite regression—of a universe within every atom and a universe within that—speaks to a mind capable of envisioning vast, interconnected possibilities. The protagonist’s journey doesn’t follow a straight line; instead, it leaps between scales of existence, mirroring the ADHD tendency to approach problems or ideas from unexpected angles. For ADHD readers, the story’s imaginative leaps might feel like a reflection of their own mental processes, where creativity thrives on making connections others might not see.
Beyond its intricate structure, the story delves into existential and philosophical depth, a hallmark of autistic cognition. The protagonist grapples with profound questions about the nature of existence, infinity, and humanity’s place in the cosmos. This reflection resonates with the autistic tendency to focus on “big questions,” often exploring abstract or existential ideas with great intensity. As the protagonist descends further into the unknown, his journey becomes a meditation on what it means to exist within a universe so much larger—and smaller—than oneself. For autistic readers, this theme can feel deeply validating, as it reflects their own inner explorations of meaning and purpose.
The growing sense of isolation and otherness in the story parallels a common experience for many neurodivergent individuals. As the protagonist shrinks into realms that are increasingly alien and incomprehensible, he becomes detached from the world he once knew. This sense of being an outsider in a vast, unfamiliar universe mirrors the feelings many neurodivergent people experience in a world that often seems designed for others. The protagonist’s simultaneous wonder and loneliness reflect the tension between awe at the complexity of existence and the struggle to connect with a reality that feels fundamentally different.
Finally, the story’s hyper-awareness of systems is a hallmark of neurodivergent thinking. The fractal nature of the universes—the way each level mirrors the others while also being distinct—aligns with a neurodivergent fascination with patterns and systems. Whether it’s the interconnectedness of ecological systems, the organisation of social structures, or the mechanics of physical phenomena, autistic and ADHD minds often excel at recognising these intricate relationships. The protagonist’s exploration of nested worlds feels like an externalisation of this cognitive ability, presenting a universe where every detail contributes to a larger, interconnected whole.
In "He Who Shrank," Hasse weaves a narrative that feels deeply attuned to the neurodivergent experience. Its themes of deep exploration, creativity, philosophical inquiry, and systemic understanding provide a lens through which AuDHD readers might see themselves and their cognitive processes reflected. Whether intentionally or not, Hasse crafted a story that captures the essence of how some neurodivergent minds engage with the world—a journey of infinite curiosity, imagination, and wonder. These resonances make "He Who Shrank" not just a product of its time but a story that remains profoundly relevant today. Its exploration of curiosity, creativity, and interconnectedness offers insights for modern readers, especially those seeking to understand neurodivergent ways of being.
Bridging the Story to Today
“He Who Shrank” holds a timeless appeal that extends beyond its original audience, resonating powerfully with modern neurodivergent readers, particularly those who are AuDHD or enthusiasts of speculative fiction. The story’s intricate exploration of nested universes, philosophical depth, and imaginative scope speaks directly to the ways in which many neurodivergent individuals process and engage with the world.
For neurodivergent readers, the protagonist’s journey into the subatomic realms can feel like a metaphor for their own cognitive experiences. AuDHD individuals, in particular, often exhibit a blend of autistic deep focus and ADHD’s boundless curiosity, making the story’s recursive exploration of ever-smaller worlds both familiar and validating. The layered complexity of the narrative mirrors the way neurodivergent minds often approach understanding: by breaking down systems into their component parts, recognising patterns, and appreciating how each layer connects to the next. The protagonist’s awe and determination to uncover what lies beyond the known resonate deeply with the intrinsic drive many neurodivergent individuals feel to explore, learn, and question.
Beyond its personal resonance, the story’s multidisciplinary appeal makes it a rich text for education and discussion. Its seamless blending of science, philosophy, and imagination creates opportunities to explore a variety of subjects through its narrative. Scientifically, the shrinking journey invites readers to consider the structure of matter, atomic theory, and even modern concepts in quantum mechanics. Philosophically, it raises profound questions about infinity, existence, and humanity’s place in the universe, sparking discussions that transcend the confines of science fiction. Imaginatively, it challenges readers to envision worlds beyond their own, stretching the boundaries of creativity and speculative thinking.
For classrooms or book clubs, the story offers a unique way to engage readers across disciplines and interests. Neurodivergent students, in particular, may find themselves drawn to its layered narrative and expansive ideas, which mirror their own ways of processing and engaging with the world. Whether used as a tool for exploring scientific concepts, a springboard for philosophical discussions, or simply as an example of classic speculative fiction, “He Who Shrank” continues to invite readers into a journey of infinite wonder—one that feels especially tailored to those who see the world through a lens of curiosity, imagination, and deep thinking. To further unpack the richness of this story, here are some discussion questions designed to engage readers across philosophical, scientific, and neurodivergent perspectives.
Discussion Questions
To spark meaningful engagement with “He Who Shrank,” here are discussion questions tailored to different settings and audiences. These questions encourage readers to reflect on the story’s themes, its alignment with neurodivergent experiences, and its broader scientific and philosophical implications.
Philosophical/Existential Questions
What does “He Who Shrank” suggest about the nature of infinity? Do you think the concept of endless shrinking mirrors the vastness of space in its immensity, or does it evoke something entirely different?
The protagonist embarks on a journey into the unknown, continually seeking to uncover what lies beyond the familiar. How does his journey reflect the human desire to understand the mysteries of existence? Do you think this drive is universal, or does it resonate more strongly with certain types of minds?
Neurodivergent Lens
The story’s recursive structure and layered exploration might feel particularly attuned to an AuDHD way of thinking. Do you see elements of autism or ADHD traits coded into the protagonist’s journey? If so, where do these traits become most evident?
As the protagonist shrinks further, he becomes increasingly isolated from the familiar and the comprehensible. How does his experience of isolation and discovery mirror the lived experience of autistic or ADHD individuals, particularly when engaging with their areas of deep interest?
Creative/Scientific Exploration
Imagine writing a sequel to “He Who Shrank.” Where might the protagonist’s journey take him next? Would he continue shrinking, or could he reverse the process and explore the macrocosmic vastness of the universe? What new challenges or discoveries might he face?
The story was written in 1936, long before modern advances in atomic theory and quantum mechanics. How does the narrative align with what we know today about the structure of atoms and subatomic particles? Are there parallels to current scientific concepts, such as string theory or the multiverse?
These questions encourage readers to engage with the story on multiple levels—philosophical, neurodivergent, and scientific—whilst offering opportunities for creative thought and exploration. Whether in a classroom, book club, or informal discussion, they provide a framework for delving deeper into the many layers of “He Who Shrank.” Beyond discussion, activities can offer hands-on ways to connect with the story’s themes. Here are some ideas tailored to different age groups and interests to make the experience even more interactive and memorable.
Suggested Activities
To deepen engagement with “He Who Shrank,” here are suggested activities tailored to various age groups and settings. These activities encourage creativity, critical thinking, and personal reflection while making the story accessible and relevant.
For younger students, visual and imaginative activities can help them connect with the story’s subatomic worlds. One idea is to create drawings or dioramas of what the protagonist might encounter as he shrinks further into the unknown. Encourage students to use their imaginations to depict alien landscapes, tiny ecosystems, or microscopic beings, blending science and creativity. Alternatively, they could write a short story imagining a universe hidden within an everyday object, such as a teacup or a blade of grass. This exercise allows them to explore the concept of worlds within worlds in a way that feels tangible and fun.
For teen or adult readers, more analytical and debate-focused activities are ideal. One option is to host a debate on whether the journey into subatomic universes is a metaphor for self-discovery, scientific curiosity, or something else entirely. This discussion can open up interpretations of the story’s deeper meaning and encourage participants to consider how fiction often reflects broader human experiences. Another activity is to research how the story’s depiction of atoms compares to modern scientific understanding. Readers could explore how concepts like quantum mechanics, string theory, or the multiverse have expanded our knowledge of subatomic worlds since the story was written.
For neurodivergent readers, activities can tap into their natural strengths and interests. A journaling prompt could ask them to reflect on a time when they “deep-dived” into a topic, exploring questions like: How did it feel? What did you learn? Did the experience change how you see the world? This can help readers draw personal connections to the protagonist’s journey. Another activity could involve creative writing, where participants imagine exploring a similar infinite regression in a topic of their choice, such as fractals, ecosystems, or galaxies. This allows them to express their unique perspectives and apply the story’s themes to areas that resonate with them.
These activities provide flexible and engaging ways to explore "He Who Shrank," whether through art, discussion, research, or personal reflection. By tailoring the activities to different audiences, you can make the story meaningful and accessible to a wide range of readers. Ultimately, revisiting “He Who Shrank” is about more than just engaging with a classic tale—it’s about finding new ways to see ourselves and our world through the lens of speculative fiction. As we reflect on its infinite depths, the story reminds us of the value in diverse perspectives and boundless curiosity.
Final thoughts …
Classic science fiction offers a wealth of opportunities to explore the complexities of human thought and imagination, especially when revisited through a neurodivergent lens. Stories like “He Who Shrank” take on new dimensions when viewed from the perspective of diverse minds, offering insights that might not have been immediately apparent. For readers who are neurodivergent—or simply curious about the ways speculative fiction can reflect unique ways of thinking—these works provide a fascinating window into the intersection of creativity, philosophy, and cognitive diversity.
“He Who Shrank” is an accessible and compelling starting point for this exploration. Its intricate narrative, blending scientific wonder with existential questions, invites readers to consider how speculative fiction can resonate with neurodivergent experiences. Whether it’s the recursive journey into subatomic worlds, the boundless imagination of its concepts, or the profound sense of curiosity and isolation that permeates the story, there is much here that speaks to the richness of neurodivergent perspectives.
The infinite complexity of “He Who Shrank” serves as a powerful metaphor for the infinite richness within neurodivergent minds. Like the nested universes in the story, these minds contain worlds within worlds, each filled with unique insights, creativity, and depth. By revisiting stories like this one, we not only celebrate the brilliance of speculative fiction but also affirm the value of diverse ways of thinking—reminders that there is always more to discover, both in literature and in ourselves.