Frederik Pohl

The Profile

Frederik Pohl (1919–2013) was an American science fiction writer, editor, and critic, best known for Gateway and his collaboration with Cyril M. Kornbluth on The Space Merchants.

Pohl collaborated with Cyril M. Kornbluth (notably on The Space Merchants) and created the Heechee Saga beginning with Gateway (original title: Gateway, 1977). He worked as an editor and was a major figure in 20th-century science fiction; his work earned major genre awards such as the Hugo and Nebula.

The single DeBaser review praises Frederik Pohl's Gateway for its structural innovation (the 'sidebars') and complex, human anti-hero Robinette Broadhead. It frames Pohl as a central figure in science fiction, noting his collaboration with Cyril Kornbluth and his role as editor/agent. The review highlights Gateway's mix of scientific detail, cultural notes, and a dual narrative structure.