The Running Man
by Stephen King
Contents
…Minus 024 and COUNTING… The earth had dropped away below the
Overview
Richards begins directing the hijacked jet after takeoff, balancing his limited knowledge of flying against his need to stay in control. He probes Holloway for the plane’s limits, warns against deception, and orders a westward course at low altitude. The chapter shifts the standoff from the runway to the sky, where Richards’s bluff and judgment now determine everyone’s survival.
Summary
After forcing the jet into the air, Ben Richards watches the earth fall away beneath him and takes in the darkening sky. Unlike his previous flight, which he slept through, Richards is alert and almost awed by the experience, noticing the last orange line of sunset and the lights below, which he believes may be Derry.
Holloway contacts Richards from the cockpit and explains that the jet is currently circling above Voigt Jetport in a holding pattern while awaiting instructions. Richards, careful not to reveal too much about his intentions, asks how low the plane can safely fly.
Holloway consults and says the jet can manage two thousand feet, though it violates N.S.A. regulations. Richards warns Holloway that officials on the ground may be trying to manipulate the crew into deceiving him, but that anyone lying to him risks consequences. Holloway replies that the people aboard only want to land safely.
Richards decides to send the plane due west at two thousand feet and asks Holloway to identify the sights below as they pass. As the plane banks and turns toward the sunset, Richards reflects with wonder that they are chasing the sun.
Who Appears
- Ben RichardsHijacker and contestant; directs the jet west while cautiously testing Holloway’s honesty.
- HollowayPilot or crew spokesman; explains the holding pattern and low-altitude limits to Richards.
- Amelia WilliamsHostage aboard the jet; sits rigidly beside Richards during his orders.