Keep Your Shape :

“Keep Your Shape” by Robert Sheckley is a thought-provoking science fiction short story from the early 1950s that blends satire, social commentary, and classic sci-fi themes. The tale follows Pid, a shape-shifting alien from the Grom species, on a mission to Earth using advanced Displacer technology. As the Grom crew confronts both the alien terrain and their own internal conflicts, the story dives into questions of conformity, identity, and rebellion against rigid societal roles. Pid’s journey becomes a metaphor for self-discovery as he wrestles with the oppressive structure of Grom society and the tantalizing freedom of embracing fluid identity. Sheckley’s sharp prose and imaginative vision make this a standout exploration of what it means to “keep your shape” in a world that demands transformation.