Robert A. Heinlein

Robert Anson Heinlein (July 7, 1907 – May 8, 1988) was one of the most influential and controversial authors in science fiction. He was the first science-fiction writer to break into mainstream general magazines such as The Saturday Evening Post in the late 1940s with unvarnished science fiction, and he was among the first authors of bestselling novel-length science fiction in the 1960s. For many years he, Isaac Asimov and Arthur C. Clarke were known as the Big Three of science fiction. He won seven Hugo awards for his novels and the first Grand Master Award given by the Science Fiction Writers of America for lifetime achievement.

Related Topics:
July 7 - 1907 - May 8 - 1988 - Science fiction - The Saturday Evening Post - 1940s - 1960s - Isaac Asimov - Arthur C. Clarke - Hugo award - Grand Master Award - Science Fiction Writers of America

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The major themes of Heinlein's work were social: radical individualism, libertarianism, religion, the relationship between physical and emotional love, and speculation about unorthodox family relationships. His iconoclastic beliefs have led to wildly divergent and contradictory perceptions of his works. His 1959 novel Starship Troopers was excoriated by many as being fascist. His 1961 novel Stranger in a Strange Land, on the other hand, put him in the unexpected role of Pied Piper to the sexual revolution and counterculture.

Related Topics:
Individualism - Libertarianism - Religion - Love - Starship Troopers - Fascist - Stranger in a Strange Land - Pied Piper - Sexual revolution - Counterculture

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The English language has absorbed several words from his fiction, including "," meaning "to understand so thoroughly that that which is observed becomes part of the observer." He was also a major influence on many other science-fiction writers, who emulated the apparently effortless skill with which he blended speculative concepts and fast-paced storytelling.

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