About Robert Sheckley
Robert Sheckley, born on July 16, 1928, in Brooklyn, New York, was a trailblazer in the realm of science fiction, renowned for his satirical and unpredictable narratives. His works, characterized by their wit and humor, have left an indelible mark on the genre.
Early Life and Education
In 1931, Sheckley's family relocated to Maplewood, New Jersey. He attended Columbia High School, where he developed a passion for science fiction. After graduating in 1946, he embarked on a journey to California, taking on various jobs such as landscape gardener, pretzel salesman, and barman. Later that year, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Korea, serving in roles including guard and army newspaper editor. Upon his discharge in 1948, Sheckley pursued higher education, earning an arts degree from New York University in 1951.
Literary Career
Sheckley's foray into writing began with the sale of his first story, Final Examination, to Imagination magazine in 1951. Throughout the 1950s, he became a prominent figure in science fiction, contributing to magazines like Galaxy and Imagination. His early works include short story collections such as Untouched by Human Hands (1954), Citizen in Space (1955), and Pilgrimage to Earth (1957). His debut novel, Immortality, Inc., was serialized in Galaxy in 1958.Sheckley's writing is distinguished by its satirical tone and exploration of absurdist scenarios. Notable stories like Bad Medicine and Protection showcase his ability to blend humor with thought-provoking themes. His novel Dimension of Miracles (1968) is often cited as an influence on Douglas Adams's The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Sheckley received several accolades. He was nominated for both Hugo and Nebula Awards and was named Author Emeritus by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America in 2001.
Later Life and Legacy
In the 1970s, Sheckley lived on the Spanish island of Ibiza before returning to the United States in 1980 to become the fiction editor of OMNI magazine. He continued to write and collaborate with other authors, including Roger Zelazny and Harry Harrison. In 2005, during a visit to Ukraine, Sheckley fell ill and was hospitalized in Kyiv. After returning to the U.S., he settled in Red Hook, New York, to be near his daughters. He underwent surgery for a brain aneurysm on November 20, 2005, and passed away on December 9, 2005, in Poughkeepsie, New York.Robert Sheckley's legacy endures through his extensive body of work, which continues to entertain and inspire readers with its unique blend of humor, satire, and insightful commentary on the human condition.