Anderson, Poul William

▪ 2002

      American science-fiction writer (b. Nov. 25, 1926, Bristol, Pa.—d. July 31, 2001, Orinda, Calif.), was the prolific author of more than 100 books of science fiction and fantasy. Over a period of about half a century, he tapped his knowledge of both science and Scandinavian folklore and mythology to create powerfully imaginative depictions of the future, writing in such varied styles as farce, adventure tales, romantic and heroic fantasy, mystery, sociopolitical drama, and serious science fiction. Anderson lived in Denmark for a short time when he was a child and there developed the interest in and acquaintance with Scandinavian mythology that would inform his later fiction, as would his bachelor's degree in physics from the University of Minnesota. In 1947, a year before graduation—during the time known as the golden age of science fiction—he had his first story, “Tomorrow's Children,” published in Astounding Science Fiction magazine. Following graduation, Anderson began his career as a freelance and had his stories published in a number of pulp magazines. His first novel, Vault of the Ages, was published in 1952, and in 1954 his first successful novel, Brain Wave, appeared. The latter reflected one of Anderson's primary interests—how people draw on their resources of courage in the face of challenges. Considered his best novel was Tau Zero (1970); its theme was the life and death of the universe. Other notable novels included A Midsummer Tempest (1974), in which William Shakespeare's works come true; The Boat of a Million Years (1989), which addresses immortality; and Genesis (2000), which deals with the intelligence of machines and which won the John W. Campbell Memorial Award. Anderson also counted numerous Hugo and Nebula awards among his many honours; served as president of the Science Fiction Writers of America (1972–73), which presented him its Grand Master Award in 1997; and was inducted into the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame in 2000.

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