Samuel R. Delany

Date of Birth: April 1, 1942

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Biography

Samuel R. Delany, born Samuel Ray Delany Jr., is an acclaimed American author, professor, and literary critic, primarily known for his works in science fiction. Delany has distinguished himself with his diverse array of talents that extend beyond writing to include teaching and critique. Over his prolific career, he has produced both award-winning novels and insightful academic works. Delany was born in Harlem, New York City, and showed an early interest in literature and the arts. His first novel, “The Jewels of Aptor,” was published when he was just 20 years old, marking the beginning of a long and productive career. Delany’s works often explore complex themes such as sexuality, race, and social structures, making him a significant figure in both science fiction and literary circles. Among his most notable works are the novels “Dhalgren,” “Babel-17,” and the “Neveryóna” series. His writing has garnered numerous awards, including the Nebula Award and Hugo Award. Delany has also made significant contributions to literary criticism, particularly with “The Jewel-Hinged Jaw: Notes on the Language of Science Fiction.” In addition to his literary achievements, Delany has had a significant impact as an educator, teaching at several prestigious institutions, including Temple University where he was a professor of English and creative writing.

5 Interesting Facts about Samuel R. Delany

1. Delany was inducted into the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame in 2002.

2. His novel “Dhalgren” has sold over a million copies despite its initial mixed critical reception.

3. Delany is openly gay and has written extensively about his experiences and the representation of LGBTQ+ issues in literature.

4. He has also written autobiographical works, including “The Motion of Light in Water,” which won a Hugo Award for Best Non-Fiction Book.

5. Delany’s literary archives are held at the Howard Gotlieb Archival Research Center at Boston University.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Samuel R. Delany

1. “Words can only help you. They can’t hurt you. They can only mean something.”

2. “The price of any serious exercise of imagination is a tolerance of fear.”

3. “You meet a new person, you go with him and suddenly you get a whole new city.”

4. “Science fiction isn’t just thinking about the world out there. It’s also thinking about how that world might be—a particularly important exercise for those who are oppressed, because if they’re going to change the world we live in, they—and all of us—have to be able to think about a world that works differently.”

5. “The end of the world is easy. A thousand endings occur each day, and it’s up to each individual to recognize them.”