"There Will Come Soft Rains" is an unusual story in that it contains no human characters. However, because of its anthropomorphic characteristics-its ability to act on its own-the house itself is a character. It continues to function even after the world around it has been destroyed. Although not specifically stated in the story, it is implied that all human life on earth has been obliterated. All that remain are shadowy silhouettes of figures burned into the side of the house by the blast of the bomb.

The house is computerized and has been programmed to proceed with its routine without the intervention of a human being. The computer wakes the house's inhabitants up from their sleep, it cooks the family's meals, cleans the house, and even sets up the card table for the regular bridge game. The house is efficient, dependable, and well-programmed. This is ironic, though...