Sanity and the Lady by Brian Aldiss is a satirical science fiction novella that explores themes of power, sanity, and societal control. The story centers around a wealthy, eccentric woman named Lady Pagwell and her psychologist, Dr. Kosmo Kallikak. Lady Pagwell resides in a dystopian society where sanity is both a commodity and a construct manipulated by those in power.

Lady Pagwell is diagnosed as “insane” because of her free-spirited nature and refusal to conform to societal norms. Her defiance leads to a battle of wits and ideology with Dr. Kallikak, who represents the authoritarian forces trying to impose conformity. As their interactions progress, it becomes clear that the definitions of sanity and madness are subjective and often used as tools for control.

The novella uses sharp humour and absurdist scenarios to critique social norms, institutionalised psychiatry, and the way societies define and enforce “normalcy.” It ultimately leaves readers questioning the true nature of sanity and who has the authority to define it.