Octavia Butler Has Died

The author of “Kindred,” “Fledgling,” and many other intelligent, challenging works of speculative fiction, died after a fatal concussion following a fall.

When we lose a master of the field — unexpectedly and too early, or after a long and storied life — it gives me pause, and drives me forward. There is only so much time to be alive, indeed.

For now. And until that’s changed… keep writing like the next page is the last one.

Update: NPR’s Talk of The Nation Science Friday re-posted a podcast edition of their June 16th, 2004 episode featuring Octavia Butler, David Brin, and Lawrence Krauss. Interesting listening, and a chance to hear Butler.

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The author of "Kindred," "Fledgling," and many other intelligent, challenging works of speculative fiction, died after a fatal concussion following a fall.When we lose a master of the field -- unexpectedly and too early, or after a long and storied life -- it gives me pause, and drives me forward. There is only so much time to be alive, indeed.For now. And until that's changed... keep writing like the next page is the last one.Update: NPR's Talk of The Nation Science Friday re-posted a podcast edition of their June 16th, 2004 episode featuring Octavia Butler, David Brin, and Lawrence Krauss. Interesting listening, and a chance to hear Butler.