Summary:
"Suite Mentale" by Randall Garrett is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story explores the deep psychological and philosophical implications of extra-sensory perception and the effects of a traumatic brain injury, weaving themes of identity, consciousness, and sanity. Set against a backdrop of governmental intrigue and advanced scientific concepts, the narrative presents a thought-provoking examination of the human mind's capabilities and the consequences of tapping into such powers. The plot revolves around Paul Wendell, a brilliant psionic mathematician who, after suffering a near-fatal gunshot wound to the head, is subjected to a radical lobotomy that leaves him in a vegetative state. This has drastic repercussions not only for Wendell but also for the eight other individuals who were part of his experimental classes on telepathy. As they descend into madness, a federal inquiry reveals the troubling nature of their newfound abilities and the potential for societal upheaval. The story ultimately raises questions about the essence of human existence, the boundaries of mental power, and the effects of knowledge on society, culminating in a dilemma faced by a former president who must decide how to respond to this unprecedented situation. (This is an automatically generated summary.)