This series of discussions will be led by John Hertz.
In each of these three sessions, we’ll discuss a classic of S-F. Come to as many as you like! You’ll be welcome to join in.
John defines a classic as “a work that survives its own time. After the currents which might have sustained it have changed, it remains, and is seen to be worthwhile for itself.” If you have a better definition, bring it up during the discussion!
Each of our three selected classics may be more interesting now than when first published. We thought it only right that each should have something to do with myths and legends.
Have you read them? Have you re-read them?
Herland, by Charlotte Perkins Gilman (1915)
Three men who discover a country peopled only by women find “daring…. broad sisterly affection … fair-minded intelligence…. health and vigor … calmness of temper” (ch. 7). It’s neat, imaginative, and warmhearted. How does she do it?
Glory Road, by Robert A. Heinlein (1963)
Is it science fiction? If not, where does fantasy belong? Samuel R. Delany called it “endlessly fascinating” and said it “maintains a delicacy, a bravura, and a joy”. Is he a dope? Why does Heinlein’s preface quote Shaw’s Caesar and Cleopatra?
Hard to Be a God, by Arkady Strugatsky & Boris Strugatsky (1964)
Centuries after Communism has inevitably prevailed on Earth, students follow other planets – but if they interfere, they’ll ruin the progress of historical materialism and bring about catastrophe. How’s that for a Prime Directive?