Damon Knight

Born in Baker, Oregon, on September 19, 1922, Damon Knight became one of the most influential figures in twentieth-century science fiction. He worked across many roles—author, editor, critic, and fan organizer—and was especially admired for his short fiction, which combined imagination with a clear, skeptical intelligence.

Many readers know him best for "To Serve Man," the memorable 1950 story later adapted for The Twilight Zone. Beyond his fiction, Knight was widely respected for his criticism and for helping professionalize the science fiction world. He was a founder of the Science Fiction Writers of America, and his influence extended through editing and teaching as well.

Knight was married to fellow writer Kate Wilhelm, and together they became important mentors to later generations of authors. He died in Eugene, Oregon, on April 15, 2002, but his legacy continued in the field he helped build, including the Grand Master award that was renamed in his honor.