Remembering Asimov

When I was a kid my mom would bring me books from the library.

She'd always get stuff from the science fiction/fantasy section, knowing that was what I preferred. She really didn't know anything about the genre though she found some real winners for me--I discovered Phillip K. Dick's wonderful novel A Scanner Darkly that way (and the film starring Keanu Reeves and Robert Downey, Jr., based on that book is worth seeing, btw), and that book became a favorite of hers, too. Also by pure chance found a couple books by Robert Coulson and Gene Deweese--Robert (Buck, that is) later on became a friend for a while, and I was totally unaware that I'd read a couple of his books. But that's another story. Sort of. That'll make sense in a little while.

I was really young at this time--around nine or so---and I didn't pay attention to authors. It just didn't occur to me. Except I figured out that I really enjoyed books written by this particular fellow with the funny name. Isaac Asimov.

So, he was the first author whose works I actually looked for. I found his books compelling, terribly interesting, eye-opening.

His books make lousy movies because most of the action is internal--there's just nothing to show except for people talking, or someone just thinking. So, Hollywood basically just uses the title without worrying about the story too much--witness I, Robot, for example. But damn! So well thought out, so well written. Especially his science fiction/mysteies. Couldn't get enough of them. And the Foundation Trilogy--man! Heady stuff! To me it was like an eight-course dinner at an expensive restaurant.

Asimov was also the first writer I ever wrote to. He responded to my letter with a thoughtful postcard that I treasured--still have it, somewhere. Over the years I wrote to him several times and he always took the time to respond. Very cool guy.

Then I discovered his non-fiction, especially his science books. He had a gift for explaining things. He'd start at the very beginning, which some people find irritating but I prefer. That way everyone starts on the same page. Read his book on black holes, for example. He starts with a very basic explanation of stars and takes you through it all until, when you get to the end, black holes make perfect sense. Genius. I do a lot of technical writing these days for my job and I use him as a role model.

He lent his name to a magazine that was, for a while, a showcase for new writers. He edited the letters section and he published a letter from me--which is how I met Buck, above, as he was one of those who wrote to me after reading it.

He died years ago--I don't have the heart to see exactly when it was. Even though I never met him in person I miss him terribly. The world needs his sane, patient, humorous outlook.

I love you, Dr. A. I hope the family you left behind is doing well.