The idea that our choices may not be our own has fascinated philosophers, scientists, and storytellers for centuries. In The Common Man, Paul Howd explores this haunting possibility through a thrilling cosmic lens. What if your destiny was decided long before you were born—and guarded by a hidden Council in the stars?
The Premise of the Sorting Table
At the heart of The Common Man lies the Sorting Table—a cosmic mechanism that predetermines the life path of every human. This sorting isn’t visible or known to humans themselves, but it’s enforced by celestial beings known as the Milky Guards. Governed by a powerful Council, this hidden order ensures that humans stay within the boundaries of their designated lives. The premise challenges our basic understanding of free will: Are we truly making choices, or are we simply playing out a script?
Sean & Paul: Accidental Rebels
Sean O’Neill and Paul Washington are just two ordinary men—until a mysterious glitch in the sorting process causes their lives to intersect. This accidental meeting sends shockwaves through the celestial realm. The Council fears that if these two men discover the truth behind their “free will,” it could spark a human uprising. Through Sean and Paul, readers experience what it means to wake up from the illusion—and the danger that comes with asking forbidden questions.
Cosmic Justice vs. Chaos
As the Council and its enforcers scramble to maintain order, The Common Man reveals a central tension: the desire for stability versus the hunger for truth. The Council believes it is protecting humanity by keeping the Sorting hidden. But as rebellion brews, the story asks—who gets to decide what’s best for the human race? And what happens when the very notion of freedom is proven false?
Why It Matters to Us
While the story unfolds across galaxies, its message hits close to home. In a world filled with social systems, economic inequality, and institutional control, The Common Man invites readers to question how much of their life is truly within their control. It’s a thrilling narrative with philosophical depth—a story that sticks with you long after the last page.
