It remained to be seen to be seen to what extent, all for how long a period, the

encroachments of death might be arrested by the process.

That's a quote from a short story called The Facts in the Case of M. Voldemar,

by the master of 19th century horror, anger Alan Poe.

It's about a guy who tries to mesmerize a terminal tuberculosis patient

called Voldemar.

I don't know the ins and outs of mesmerism,

but it seems like it's basically hypnotism.

But if I understand it right, it was thought to have physical healing potential.

You know, it could cure ailments or relieve pain in this voldemaire story the narrator thought

Mesmerism would according to the quote arrest death stop it in its tracks not to spoil things death. the idea of dying seem a whole lot worse. I first read this tale in a college English class. We had to write a paper about its themes, what it meant. You know, a higher learning assignment.

Didn't think much about it at the time.

Collegic life doesn't lend itself to existential thoughts about immortality.

Once I turned in my paper, didn't really think about it again until a few weeks ago when something

reminded me a posed revolting story and all the messed up things that happened

to our bodies when we die. You're listening to Run Fool. I'm Rodney Barnes and this is episode 43. The other case of M. Thaldbar. Before I begin, let me offer a disclaimer. I'm not chasing the fountain of youth, but I am a man of a certain age and there was a time when I was curious about

upkeep so I went to this wellness doctor this was a fancy place some medical

startup that was supposed to be cutting edge, an exclusive celebrity spot.

And lucky for me I knew a guy who knew a guy, who got me a slot on the client list. Anyways, I got there, headed back to my exam room when the receptionist told me to.

On my way I passed an open door, and heard something curious, the sound of weeping.

I peered inside.

There was a man sitting on an exam table.

...