Frank Herbert

As the author of the world-famous <i>Dune</i> series, as well as of numerous other science fiction novels, Frank Herbert (1920-1986) has long been regarded as one of the most acclaimed masters of the genre. <i>Frank Herbert: The Works</i> is a comprehensive critical biography of the literary achievements – and sometimes stupendous disappointments – which comprise the literary legacy of this colossal figure who so long dominated the science fiction stage. For the first time Herbert's most famous works, including <i>Dune, Dune Messiah, Children of Dune, God Emperor of Dune, Whipping Star, Destination: Void</i> and <i>The Santaroga Barrier</i>, are considered chronologically in conjunction with his short stories and other writings. A new understanding of the deeper significances of his most well-known works emerges from the context of his lesser fiction and non-fiction, as well as from consideration of the times and places in which he worked. Answers to innumerable questions which Herbert's legions of fans have been pondering for decades are offered here, along with extensive supporting arguments and documentation. What emerges is a new synthesis and appreciation for the expansive mind of a truly original American writer and artist. Among the problems tackled in this volume are these: How was Herbert influenced by the 1960s counterculture in San Francisco? How did he assemble the disparate pieces that synergized into <i>Dune</i>? What are some of the technical shortcomings of <i>Dune</i>? How did Herbert begin to model an extended spectrum of consciousness within his other novels, including <i>Destination: Void</i> and <i>The Santaroga Barrier</i>? Was Herbert at heart a scientist or a mystic? How prescient was he concerning the modern threat of terrorism? How did Herbert envision the interface between spacetime, energy, matter, and the mind? Did he see government as a dangerous, power- and control-seeking force determined to keep people down, or as an inevitable emergent property of social interaction that expresses a collective subconscious will? How might Frank Herbert have written the last volume of his <i>Dune</i> series had he lived? What is the connection between Paul Muad'Dib and the John F Kennedy assassination? What parallels did Herbert find between Richard M Nixon and the Weather Underground? How did private family relationships shape what Herbert could and couldn't write? What lessons may be drawn concerning the involvement of a brilliant author

Year

2012

Language

English

Publisher

Bob R Bogle

Editions

1

ISBN

9780985589301

Data source: Wikidata