Robert A. Heinlein: The Ego and the Writer

Robert A. Heinlein, a prominent figure in the realm of science fiction, often discussed his thoughts on his writing and compared himself to other renowned authors. Early in his career, Heinlein was notably humble about his writing quality. In an interview, he once admitted, "I have never thought of myself as a great writer of literature," suggesting a balanced and realistic perspective. His modesty stemmed from his profound respect for the craft of writing and his desire to continuously improve. However, Heinlein's pride in his work was equally significant, as writing became his life’s work and a source of sustenance through his earnings.

His Later Years: Confidence and Self-Assurance

As Heinlein matured, his confidence in his writing grew. This confidence, while admittedly egoistic, was not overly boastful. He expressed admiration for many other notable science fiction writers and maintained lifelong friendships with many of them. However, in his later life, Heinlein took a different approach to his writings. Notably, he removed the editing from several of his novels and returned them to their original manuscript state. This decision was based on his belief that the original drafts were closer to his true intentions and artistic vision.

Some of these edits improved the novels, enhancing the narrative flow and clarity. In other cases, however, Heinlein perhaps underestimated the benefits of his editors' suggestions. As he said, "Sometimes it’s better to leave things as they are, but not always." This suggests a nuanced approach to self-assurance and humility, where he acknowledged his own strengths and weaknesses.

Friendships and Admiration

Heinlein’s relationships with other science fiction writers were both a testament to his self-assurance and a reflection of his humility. Despite his status as one of the greatest writers in the field, he remained humble about his achievements. He attended numerous science fiction conventions, where he met and mingled with other writers and fans. These conventions were not merely social gatherings but also opportunities for him to learn and grow as an author.

Heinlein was well-known for his admiration of the works of other science fiction writers. He expressed his admiration for authors like A.E. van Vogt, C.L. Moore, and A. E. Read’s works. His admiration extended beyond just writing to the broader community within science fiction. He often emphasized that the success of an author like himself was a reflection of the strength of the entire genre. He once said, "When I write, I am contributing to the fabric of the human spirit." This sentiment underscores his belief in the collective significance of science fiction as a literary form.

A Balanced Perspective on Self-Esteem

Ultimately, Heinlein’s self-assessment can be summarized as a balanced perspective on self-esteem and ego. He did not consider himself arrogant or overbearing, despite his pride in his work. He believed that he was a good writer but never more than was reasonable. As he once stated, "I am not the best, but I am one of the best." This statement reflects a realistic self-evaluation, acknowledging his strengths without overstating them. His approach to writing was one of continuous improvement and collaborative growth within the community of science fiction authors.

Heinlein’s legacy in science fiction is not just about his literary contributions but also about his ability to navigate the complexities of self-assessment and self-esteem. His journey, marked by a mix of humility and confidence, offers valuable lessons for aspiring writers and readers alike. In a field where self-promotion is often encouraged, Heinlein’s balanced approach stands as a reminder that true greatness often lies in the ability to recognize one’s own limitations and contributions.

For more information on Robert A. Heinlein and his impact on science fiction, we recommend exploring his numerous works, attending science fiction conventions, and reading about the life and times of this remarkable author.