[geeks] e.e. smith "lensman" series

Chris Byrne chris at chrisbyrne.com
Mon Apr 15 12:56:01 CDT 2002


> -----Original Message-----
> From: Michael A. Turner
> 	On the subject of Heinlein, if you have not had the chance go pick
> up the "New" Version of stranger in a strange land do so
> immediately.

Actually I liked them both, but I always favor reading the authors intended
work. Aparently Most of Heinlens stuff was very heavily edited, and from
what I've read this is a good thing because he had some issues with style
and coherency. As an author (none of my fiction has been published but I've
got two text books co-authored and I wrote for some magazines for a few
years) I know how helpful a good editor can be.

Unfortunately I know how horrible a bad editor can be. With just a few words
removed or changed the whole meaning of the entire book or article can be
changed, even reveresed.

If you want to see the best example of this by  Heinlein read the original
edition of The Puppet masters, and the restored edition. Two COMPLETELY
different books.

> of the beast". My personal favorite, since we are sharing, is "J.O.B. a
> comedy of justice".

I Like J.O.B (anyone see the paperback version with the guy in a leather
jacket, presumably Alex, holding his hands out with that "Oh god, why me...
oh well " expression on his face? Just Perfect.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/stores/detail/-/books/0345316509/reader
/1/103-7612671-5350215#reader-link)

For me though it's a tossup between Moon is a harsh mistress, which is also
the first Heinlein I ever read (gotta love the TANSTAAFL principle), and the
sixth column which just resonates with me.

Oh and for those of you who followed the recent political threads with
interest please read "Take Back Your Government" if you can ever find a
copy.

BTW, Anyone read the last Callahans book Callahans Key? Perfect tribute to
Heinlein in there (alnog with about half a dozen other authors). I'm a big
Callahans fan but most of Spders other stuff leaves me cold.

Chris Byrne



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