University Daily Kansan Page 9
Public Relations, Science Fiction Not Contradictory, Gunn Says
Ev Bob Henry
If the office of University Relations someday grinds out science fiction press releases about KU, don't be surprised.
You wonder why? James E. Gunn, administrative assistant to the chancellor for University relations, is a reporter of factual news about KU on one hand; but on the other he is a well-known author of not-so-factual science fiction and fantasy. The chances of his getting mixed up in his dual writing role are minute, but the thought is excitifii.
James E. Gunn
FOR THE UNIVERSITY, his creativity is used to interpret KU to the public, and in science fiction "the writer deals in a meaningful way with problems that are most pressing today—the effect of change on people and their society." Gunn said.
Is Gunn, in his two writing roles, a paradox? He says no. In a recent interview, Gunn said, "My work in University relations and in science fiction both require a creative attitude."
The author of seven books dealing with science fiction, six of which have been published, admits he is slowing down as a fiction writer. Most of his recent work is based on writing he did several years ago. "I think the creative energies used in University relations leave less of this necessary quality left over for science fiction writing," he said.
A member of the University since 1955. Gunn has been in his present capacity since 1959. He also carries the title of instructor of English, teaching a course in short story writing during the spring semester.
Friday, Oct. 23,1964
GUNN, A NATIVE of Kansas City,
His first two books were full length novels, "This Fortress World," 1955, and "Star Bridge," 1955. The latter was co-authored by Jack Williamson. His last four published books have been paperback collections of his short stories. They include "Station in Space," 1958; "The Joy Makers," 1961; "The Immortals," 1962; and "Future Imperfect," 1964. His latest book, "The Reluctant Witch," is currently being studied by publishers.
Mo., was graduated from KU in 1947, with a degree in journalism. Since then, he has been a prolific writer.
He began writing science fiction in 1948, and he has written and sold 50 stories, six novels since then plus writing his master's thesis on science fiction in 1951 at KU.
GUNN CONSIDERS "THE JOY Makers" the best received of his books. It was reprinted as a hard back in England and received an excellent review by Edmund Crispin of the London Times Literary Supplement in October of 1963. Crispin said: "... The Joy Makers is outstandingly successful."
His novels have been published in hard cover and paper back—in this country and abroad. Four of his stories have been dramatized over network radio, and one was adapted for the Desilu Playhouse series on television.
Science fiction makes a contribution to society, Gunn said. It dramatizes the effects of change on society and explores various answers to the problems which result from the changes. Most novels, which he calls main-stream fiction, look to the past and deal with the eternal themes—love, hate, and death.
Gunn denies that science fiction tries to predict the future. One reason for this criticism of science fiction is that several writers have been lucky and their books appear to be predictions since portions of them have proven correct.
THERE IS A GROWING tendency today toward less and less science fiction. Gunn denies that there is a growing disinterest in the subject, but scientific advances which form much of the basis for science fiction, are growing more difficult to interpret in their impact upon society.
As a result of the inability to interpret technological advances for society, there is a tendency for science fiction to lean toward philosophical and adventure topics.
Another result is that a once glutted science fiction magazine market is now taken up by eight or nine magazines. At one time after World War II, there were probably more than 30 science fiction magazines
GUNN'S PREFERENCE in science fiction is in the philosophical and psychological field. He hopes and plans to continue writing, but he admits he has trouble finding much time for this kind of writing.
"Come Early and Stay Late" is the theme song for Homecoming weekend activities. Nov. 5.6.7.
Following his graduation from KU in 1947, Gunn did graduate work at Northwestern University and worked as a free lance writer before returning to KU to earn his mater's degree in 1951. He did some free lance writing in Kansas City.
In 1955, he joined the English faculty at KU, and also began editing alumni publications. Three years later he was made assistant director of public relations, a job he held for one year before being elevated to his present role.
Belafonte Concert Caps Homecoming
published, Gunn said.
The schedule of events starts at 3:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 5, with the Kenneth A. Spencer Memorial Lecture by Frederick R. Kappel, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the American Telephone and Telegraph Company. Kappel's lecture will be delivered in the University Theatre. Murphy Hall.
Activity will then range through Friday evening and all day Saturday, culminating with the Henry Belafonte Concert at 8 p.m. Saturday, in Allen Field House.
Highlights of the weekend, in addition to the Belafonte Concert, will be the Freshman-Varsity basketball game at 7 p.m., Friday, Allen Field House; the stage production of "West Side Story," 9 p.m., Friday in the University Theatre, Murphy Hall; and Saturday afternoon's KU vs. Nebraska football game.
HILLCREST BOWL & RESTAURANT
Attention Bowlers!
Sign up for the college league now forming
3-Man Teams
Submit teams by 10 p.m. Monday, Oct.26
League Time: Tuesday 9 p.m.
HILLCREST SHOPPING CENTER
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