Forrest J Ackerman (1916–2008)

I really liked these stories. I've seen most of the movies made from them, and as is usually the case, the stories are better than the movies. Since they were written mid-twentieth century, of course you have the annoying curse of the authors calling women "girls." And women are of course mostly window-dressing. Here's an especially sickening scene in "Damnation Alley" by Roger Zelazny, the only movie preferred to its story:

"He bent toward her, and she began to rub his shoulders. Her hands were quick and strong. "You do that good, girl." "Thanks." He straightened up, leaned back. Then he reached out, took the flask and had another drink. She took a small sip when he passed it to her. The furies rode about them, but the bridge above stood The siege. Tanner turned off the lights. "Let's make it," he said, and he seized her and Drew her to him. She did not resist him, and he found her belt buckle and unfastened it. Then he started on the buttons. After a while, he reclined her seat. "Will you keep me?" She asked him. "Sure." "I'll help you. I'll do anything you say to get you through." "Great." "After all, if Boston goes, then we go, too." "You bet." Then they didn't say much more.… (mais)