American author (1926–2001) best known for such fantasy and science fiction works as the Pyrotechnic League and Time Patrol series. TLS, three pages, 8.5 x 11, September 25, 1968. Anderson writes to John J. Pierce at the Daily Advocate in Dover, New Jersey. In part: “My position is merely that, in science fiction as everywhere, ‘There are nine-and-sixty ways of constructing tribal lays [sic], and every single one of them is right!’ A good strong narrative line is certainly a literary virtue; but so is depth of characterization; and excellence of writing; and proper use of symbolism, which is not something invented by English professors but, quite simply, making a story (or poem or what have you) say things in addition to what appears in it at first glance…. I in turn will agree with you that much of the ‘New Wave’ writing today is, on its own terms, as incompetently done as the worst stories of the Gernsback era were in terms of simple narration….” Anderson goes on to cite specific virtues from a number of other literary works, including Slan, Dune, Who Goes There?, The Ancient Gods, and others. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Light handling wear and a few wrinkles, otherwise fine condition. R&R COA.
