The story "I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream" originally appeared in IF: Worlds of Science Fiction in March 1967 before appearing as the title story of the collection I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream. The story was well received by critics and readers alike, garnering a Hugo Award in 1968. Because of its social commentary and its cultural significance, the story is taught at many universities and colleges.

A number of critics have developed important readings of the story. George Edgar Slusser released a book-length study of Ellison's work in 1977, Harlan Ellison: Unrepentant Harlequin, in which he spends considerable time with the story. Slusser's treatment of the story is largely plot summary. However, Slusser does develop an interesting insight into the narrator Ted. Slusser argues that Ted is the "thinker" among the survivors. Further, it is Ted who "decides death is the only way...