Damon Knight on Early Science Fiction (Lucian, Poe, Verne)

Legendary SF author Damon Knight discusses science fiction from before the genre was established. He begins with early tales of moon voyages (Lucian, Cyrano de Bergerac) and contrasts 19th-century authors Edgar Allan Poe and Jules Verne. (A second half dealing with H.G. Wells and later writers is forthcoming.) This interview conducted by science fiction Grand Master and Hall of Fame inductee James Gunn, is excerpted from the Literature of SF DVD available through AboutSF.

[@marq9607]

Nearly fifty years ago I received my first ever rejection letter from Damon Knight for a submitted short story. I have never forgotten the event because although I was disappointed, the rejection arrived as a hand-written note from Damon Knight encouraging me to keep submitting because he was certain I'd soon succeed. Although he was wrong about the 'soon', his encouragement kept me submitting until I finally did succeed. What a guy he was!!

[@tarstarkusz]

The guy is a moron and a commie. Eff him.

[@williamhagen2792]

Knight was extremely articulate and intellogent.

[@TheNomad2727]

what an awesome name this guy has

[@ramtha9]

I was named 'Damon' from the writers, Damon Runyon and Damon Knight. Cool to see Mr. Knight in this. I pray I will become as intelligent as this guy. Thanks aboutsf.

[@atompunk5575]

Interesting video

[@pfoneil67]

@marq9607 What story did you succeed in getting published?

[@tarstarkusz]

Poe thought it would take 1000 years to get a transatlantic cable that was built 10 years after the story. 1858 was the first one.

[@sinhog]

I agree with Izzylsou