Ursula K. Le Guin (Writers of the 21st Century)

8vo, hardcover in dj, Ursula K. Le Guin is one of the most highly regarded of contemporary science fiction writers, and she has won wide acclaim and accolades for her work - including the National Book Award as well as the Newbula and Hugo Awards. Original in invention and brilliant in execution, her fiction is characterized by richness of imagery and of language. The essays in this volume focus on the moral, psychological, political, and mythological themes in Le Guin's novels and short stories. N. B. Hayles considers the historical context of androgyny and show how Le Guin has used androgyny to brilliant effect in The Left Hand of Darkness. Thomas J. Remington discusses LeGuin's use of the Tao concept of "touching opposites" in her work. And Philip E. Smith II's stimulating chapter will considerably broaden the reader's understanding of the political sources and influences behind The Dispossessed. These and other expert contributors offer perspectives on Le Guin's work that allow for a greater appreciation of her achievement and contributions to science fiction and fantasy.