God is an iron and other stories Book

This book was loaned to me some time ago, from one who knew I liked S-F. This is a collection of nine short stories and a novella, "Stardance," co-written with his wife Jeanne, which won the Nebula award in 1978. According to Wikipedia, Mr. Robinson was heavily influenced (and mentored) by Robert A. Heinlein. He was also influenced by the mystery writer John D. MacDonald (who is venerated by the likes of Stephen King, Dean Koontz and Walter Mosley).

"Stardance: was my favorite of these stories. It tells of a professional albeit idiosyncratic dancer who uses nonverbal communication in a space environment to hopefully dissuade potential invading aliens to pass Earth by. But those are the true bare bones of the story; Shara Drummond's personality and artistic style are very nicely laid out throughout the narrative, with a satisfying, though somewhat sad, ending.

My second favorite is "In The Good Old Days," in which the identity of an old man only gradually is revealed, and that done quite subtly. The title story is sort of a variation on Michael Crichton's "The Terminal Man," though in a more generally addictive context. That is, the ultimate pleasure is gotten from direct stimulation of on the brain's pleasure center, called "wireheading," which allows bypassing of all other addictive methods. The phrase is explained in the story thus: "If a person who indulges in gluttony is a glutton, and a person who commits a felony is a felon, then God is an iron." The story ends with somewhat of a humorous surprise, made me smile.

The remaining stories are all enjoyable, but those were my favorites. I'd give this five stars for the unique points of view and evocative writing.