"Flowers for Algernon" is a science fiction short story and later a novel by Daniel Keyes. It follows the journey of Charlie Gordon, a man with an intellectual disability who undergoes an experimental surgery to increase his intelligence. The story is told through Charlie's progress reports, documenting his thoughts and feelings as he becomes smarter and more aware of the world around him. As Charlie's intelligence grows, he develops complex relationships and faces emotional challenges. However, the effects of the surgery are temporary, leading to a decline in his mental abilities. The story explores themes of intelligence, human dignity, and the ethical implications of scientific experimentation.