After the 2018 Nebulas
Well, here I am, writing about the 2018 Nebula Conference past the grace period for such things. I suppose I can only hope no one will view my lateness uncharitably. This was my second time visiting the Nebulas Conference, and the first time speaking on a panel about “The Risks and Rewards of Writing #OwnVoices” before many of my peers. This year, SFWA was able to book Martin P. Robinson as the emcee for the awards ceremony, and I was transported to childhood as he performed Mr. Snuffleupagus (sans the costume, of course), an unnamed not-a-frog muppet and Telly Monster. I had hoped he would be able to perform the the Yip Yip Martians, but alas it was not to be.
In light of recent news, Connie Willis’ speech to present Gardner Dozois with the Kate Wilhelm Solstice Award was even more moving. His son Christopher accepted the award on his behalf since Dozois was hospitalized due to sudden illness. Editing for science fiction magazines since the 70’s, he helped shape the field I among many other writers work today.
Gardner Dozois passed away this weekend.
I only ever knew him for the “Year’s Best” anthologies he edited, but I bought those collections every year. I’d read them cover to cover, long before I had the notion I could even be a writer. For that, I’d like to give my thanks.
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