The Michelist Movement in American Fandom

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See also: A Fairly Complete Case Against Michelism, A Better Case Against Michelism, and Mutation or Death!
Academic Commentary
Title: The Michelist Movement in American Fandom
Commentator: Robert A. W. Lowndes
Date(s): July 1940
Medium: Print
Fandom: Science Fiction
External Links: Hosted online by fanac.org. The Science Fiction Fan #48 pp. 5-32. July 1940.
Click here for related articles on Fanlore.

The Michelist Movement in American Fandom was a lengthy history of Michelism and the Futurians. Authored by Futurian Robert A. W. Lowndes, it was printed in The Science Fiction Fan in July 1940.

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"Michelism is not a party or a club. It is a state of mind at which many have arrived and more will arrive". - - Wollheim.

The "Gernsback Delusion" and Beginnings of Michelism

The story of the Michelist movement is the story of an attitude. As with all attitudes it began as a vague., evanescent thing, flickering, and at times, seemingly dying to an ember. But at length it attained real consciousness and grew from a suspicion to a realization. With realization the Michelist movement in American fandom began in earnest.

But the story of the Michelist movement in American fandom must properly begin with the first suspicions, continue with the flickering and move through doubts and blunders until it has at length become a steady flame. It is not the story of a group from the very first fully conscious and sure of themselves; it is the story of a small section of fandom who knew they wanted something, who knew they had a goal. Through constant striving they came to know bit by bit what they wanted and where they were going.

As with all attitudes which are common to many people, Michelism did not strike every fan, nor did it occur to all those fans who are now Michelists at the same time. The fan who is also a Michelist is an individual possessed of a particular type of sensitivity and intellect. It is not to be implied that the non-Michelist can not be sensitive or intellectual: many non-Michelist fans are both.

And what is this Michelist attitude? It is the conviction that (1) Science-fiction fans, by the very nature of their outlook as visionaries and speculators, are most vitally concerned with what is happening in the world of reality, ([2]) That realizing this fact, the fan desires to make his or her contribution in the world of reality toward human progress and against reaction, (3) That while the range of progressive action is almost limitless, and freedom of the individual conscience is the rule, no fan can possibly be a Michelist who in any way approves or condones any credo, philosophy, or government, which takes an anti-scientific position. That which attacks science also attacks science-fiction.

The present outline, being the first of its kind, will be rather incomplete and doubtlessly inaccurate on many points. The author welcomes criticism of constructive nature and trusts that with all its faults, this work will have given the reader a clearer picture of the Michelist movement in American fandom than he or she had before the reading.

So long as the Gernsback theory of the purpose of science-fiction fitted the needs of fandom, thus long did it remain the accepted theory. It must be remembered that from the very first science-fiction and science-fiction fandom was supposedly imbued with a purpose, one outlined by the editor of the original science-fiction magazine. Not all readers, or all fans entirely agreed with this theory that science-fiction existed for the purpose of educating pleasantly via sugar-coated scientific propaganda: science-fiction, and that the purpose of fandom was to make scientists and technicians out of its most advanced members. But those who dissented were in a distinct minority and, as a rule, they would quietly leave fandom and never return. Others would leave in a hail of invective and vituperation levelled at science-fiction and fandom but without exception, they bolted rather than make a united effort to change fandom.

Concurrently, the quality of science-fiction was high enough so that those who were not interested in a purpose other than the pleasure of reading the magazines and seeing their letters in the readers' columns were quite satisfied.

Outside of science-fiction magazines, world conditions, and the situation in our own country, suddenly took a change. Instead of the new golden era which politicians, scientists, and professional of all natures, with the exceptions of a few who were looked upon as crackpot alarmists were predicting, a new era of which the science-fictionists secretly believed themselves the vanguard, there ensued a period of crisis and ruin unbelievable.

Overnight, science-fictionists found themselves shifted from the offensive to the defenisve. From an escape into realities to come, science-fiction became merely an escape. Still, the fans hoped for justification: soon some prominent science-fiction fans would fulfill their destiny and become scientists. They would be scientists after the dreams of the fan, not hidebound to the past, but free, visionary, fearless scientists who would discover some new power, who would make science-fiction dreams come true and usher in the new golden era for the world.

Thus fans waited and hoped for the day of their justification. If today they were sneered at for reading science-fiction, for "wasting" their time with fan activities, their day would soon come. Soon a newly-acclaimed scientist would profess his great debt to science-fiction, to the escape literature which was really escape into reality. Oddly enough, few fans dreamed of themselves in this position: it was usually "some fan turned scientist".

Slowly passed the years and a few fans became writers, artists, etc. But where were the scientists? And where was the golden age? Outside the science-fiction magazines was despair, poverty, and in Europe a new dark age. But at last it was discovered that a few ex-science-fiction fans had more or less made the grade. True, they had not made epochal discoveries, BUT IT WAS FELT THAT WITH BETTER TIMES... But here was the hour of triumph: science-fiction fans had become scientists. Fandom looked forward to its hour of justification. What resulted was as unexpected as it was devastating: instead of declaiming their great debt to science-fiction, instead of lauding it as a source of inspiration, without exception they denounced it as an addle-pated waste of time.

In practice the Gernsback theory proved a miserable failure.

At the same time, the quality of science-fiction in magazines was going steadily down. Magazines combined, suspended, or decreased frequency of publication. Fan activities rose from letter-writing to fan-magazine publishing and organizing into local or national clubs.

For awhile, the purpose of keeping science-fiction going, of striving to make the professional magazines improve themselves, or organizing clubs served a purpose for stf. And in the most influential organization outside of the magazine-sponsored Science Fiction League, the Gernsback theory was still accepted insofar as the setup of the ISA was concerned. In early 1937, a highly successful convention was held in New York City. Here antagonisms between various fan groups and individuals were liquidated and to all intents and purposes fandom was on a definite upsurge with the ISA bearing the torch.

The resignation of its President proved how weak the ISA actually was and how false the Gernsback theory, even where it seemed most strong. Whether wisely or no, the ISA was dissolved and fandom again found itself drifting in a sea of uncertainties. Thus arose the necessity for a new theory of the purpose of science-fiction. And with the necessity came the search. It was not a deliberate and conscious thing for at no particular time did a group of fans get together and state: it is time we became wise to the falseness of the Gernsback theory: from this moment onward we are Michelists. Not after the events were the purposes sought and outlined.

The Cast

Those most active in the Michelist movement in American fandom have been Donald A. Wollheim, Robert W. Lowndes, John B. Michel, Frederick Pohl, Jack Rubinson, Cyril Kornbluth, and Jack Gillespie. Associated to a certain extent with them have been Forrest J. Ackerman, Myrtle R. Douglas (Morojo), Milton A. Rothman, Richard Wilson, Jr.; Leslie Perri, and Olon F. Wiggins.

Those most active in the struggle against Michelism have been William S. Sykora, Sam Moskowitz, James V. Taurasi, Jack Speer. Associated with them at times have been John V. Baltadonis, J. Chapman Miske, Fred Shroyer, T. Bruce Yerke, and Daniel McPhail.

On the even of the Michelist revolution the status of the dramatis personae was briefly as follows:-

Donald A. Wollheim was well known to fandom and had already made friends and enemies galore. A veteran fan, a collector, an indefatigable correspondent, a writer for nearly fan magazine in existence, he was known for his work in the SFL and ISA, for his fight against Wonder Stories, for magazines of his own editing such as The Phantagraph and, in the lighter vein, for his part in the Staple War and in GhuGhuism.

An extremely sensitive and intelligent person especially vulnerable to vulgar attack because of his personal appearance, he built up around himself an armour of biting wit and keen invective. His attacks upon persons or ideas, whether serious or in jest, were brilliant and merciless. So sharp was the sword of Wollheim, that, in the resulting bitternesses, his real generosity and good humour was often overlooked. Undoubtedly he had, at time, made un-necessary enemies, plunged into needless personalities. On the other hand, the vast preponderance of friends over enemeies, and admirers over detractors, and the general correctness of his line, despite occasional errors, have all tended to keep him the "top" science fiction fan.

John B. Michel was known through a large correspondence, through having won a prize in Wonder Stories Quarterly's plot-contests and an honorable mention in a cover contest, for his role in various organizations, particularly the SFL and the ISA along with Wollheim and Sykora, and for his letters to editors and work on the "International Observer".

Ill health has kept Michel from playing a much larger role in the Michelist movement, while an impediment in speech prevents him from the most direct means of adequate expression. His articles are hot-blooded and caustic. He furnished the spark which galvanized potentialities into actualities.

Frederik Pohl was well known in the ISA and SFL for activities therein, for letters to editors, for "Mind of Man", for legendary dissipations, and for his editorship of the International Observer after Michel resigned.

Cynical, and capable, inclined to opportunism, Pohl has been an asset to Michelism. His individuality, personal charm, and air of savior faire has often been the honey which accomplished more than the vinegar of sheer intellectual appeal.

Robert W. Lowndes was little known, save for a few poems in the Phantagraph, for occasional letters to editors, for items in the Brookley Reporter in regard to his chapter of the SFL, and for opposing Wollheim in the Staple War.

A most contradictory nature and a stubborn disregard for setbacks has made Lowndes prominent in the Michelist movement. He has been referred to as the most "liberal" of the Michelists by their opponents.

William S. Sykora had temporarily retired from fandom at this time, retired in a halo of invective and vituperation against science fiction and stf fans, but was well remembered for his work in the SFL and ISA, both constructive and destructive.

A most capable person, Sykora's innate inability to trust others, his admitted reluctance to look ahead into new directions, and his self-centered ambitions to push himself forward regardless of what promises were broken or friendships betrayed, has led him into the very type of activities he at one time so valiantly opposed. Like the legendary fanatic, Sykora has continually redoubled his efforts after having forgotten his aim.

Mutation or Death! and Aftermath

Shortly before the outbreak of the Michelist revolution in October 1937, Wollheim wrote Lowndes mentioning that Michel had written a Communistic speech for presentation at the Convention in Philadelphia, Lowndes raised his eyebrows and promptly forgot about the matter, not being particularly interested.

When the Philadelphia convention met, there was but one big thing hanging before fandom: the World-Science Fiction Convention of 1939. No large organization (in the USA) existed; no single fanmag monopolized the field, no professional magazines offered adequate opportunity for discussion. Thrilling Wonder Stories printed letters of praise and a few knocks without comment. Amazing Stories published letters of no later vintage than three months before the date of the current issue and Astounding Stories was interested only in Science Discussions, a revival, to some extent, of Gernsbackism.

Michel's speech "Mutation or Death" was a cutting analysis of the general worthlessness of science-fiction and fandom at the present time. Many speeches before had been made, or vitriolic letters written saying in main the same things. But previously, these had always been the signal for the speaker or writer to depart from the field for good. Michel's speech not only exposed the situation but offered a remedy, pointed to what might be called for a "mutation" in science-fiction and science-fiction fandom.

As an afterthought, Wollheim added a resolution to the speech, calling for the support of the meeting. It called upon the meeting to place itself on record as opposing all forces leading toward barbarism and approving the march onward toward a more perfect, sane, scientific world. Both the speech and the resolution caught the audience unaware and a fierce controversy followed.

The resolution calling for fans to recognize realities outside of fandom and to place themselves on record as in favour of human progress via science and opposing barbarism and war and all forces leading thereto was the first stroke in the Miehelist revolution, It provoked hot debate and met not only intellectual but personal opposition. When a vote was called, out of the 20 who answered, 12 voted nay. But the revolt had started. Directly after this convention, the Lowndes-Wollheim correspondence flared into activity while the question of the resolution (the wording of which Lowndes opposed) was thrashed out and the question of Communism raised. While not violently anti-Communist, Lowndes was under the usual misimpressions on the subject and was anti-political and anarchistic in viewpoints. It was finally generally agreed that Lowndes would study into the matter for an indefinite length of time before coming to a decision, inasmuch as far as, on the question of the new revolt, there was little disagreement. Thus the Triumvirate became a Quadrumvirate.

Despite the objections of John B. Michel, the new attitude was called Michelism, and the new movement known as the Michelist movement. Lowndes raised desultory objections over naming it after a person but felt that the name was not of sufficience importance to allow internal dissension so subsided.

Wollheim was flooding the fan magazines with articles about the revolution in fandom (although it was not termed as such until 1939) and in an article in "Novae Terrae" advocated support of the principles of the Communist International. Few fans realised that Wollheim, here, was not speaking for the Michelists as a whole, but was merely expressing his own opinion, albeit this opinion was shared, by several other Michelists. Moreover, the loading fans in the movement did not realize that they were perhaps the only fans ready at that time to support anything that smacked of Communism, that to advance the issue of Communism (intellectually) as a logical outgrowth of the Michelist attitude was to create a false issue, to frighten away many fans who might have been on the verge of joining the movement openly. And it further served to give the more unscrupulous opponents of the Michelists an invaluable weapon.

Another mistake was the Wollheim-Moskowitz feud which helped only solidify the opposition. Although Wollheim was obviously in the right, the feud was un-necessary, and it served an example of Michelists failure, at that time, correctly to analyze the situation. The Science Fiction Fan carried it on for a time, then wearying, Editor Wiggins closed the doors for further discussion on the subject. In the first issue of "The Vagrant" Lowndes clarified the entire matter which had become almost incredibly obscure, but this, too, was undesirable.

THE CPASF (Committee for the Political Advancement of Science Fiction) was never fully understood by its own members until after it had been running for some time. Enemies and neutrals therefore, can hardly be blamed for getting false impressions. It was clearly not a Michelist organization as its membership was not all-Michelist nor were its aims directed principally at fandom. It was no more nor less than its title implied. It aimed to inject a greater measure of political consciousness into science-fiction by arousing the editors to print more sociological science-fiction stories, by getting them to feature sociological articles, by arousing sociological discussion in reader’s columns. It also hoped to get the editors to take a firm stand against reactionary influences, to reject such stories as preached anti-scientific theories under the guise of science-fiction. It hoped to work with other fans toward these same ends. In that way, it would be serving Michelism indirectly inasmuch as by taking action in this matter fans would soon realize a new attitude toward science-fiction and fandom. It's aim was plainly not to make Michelists members of the Communist Party or Young Communist League.

This, however, did not prevent anti-Michelists from very promptly naming it the "Communist Party' Agitators in Scienti-fandom". A few of the opposition really believed this was the case.

The first direct action was taken in regard to Editor Campbell of Astounding Stories. Letters were written and personal visits made. Editor Campbell expressed his liking for sociological stories but also stressed that worthwhile examples of these in science-fiction were rare, He did run a novel entitled "3000 Years" which was to a large extent a sociological novel. However this story appeared to many Michelists to be actually a concealed attack upon science and progress through presenting a warped viewpoint. Michelists therefor attacked the story, attempted to rally fans around them in protest. There was little or no response. Few fans saw anything wrong with the story and those who did were content to say they merely did not like it.

The "3000 Years" argument, while not a Michelist success, was a valuable experience. It taught the Michelists that they must go forward slowly, one step at a time, and not expect wonders of fandom. It taught them that to try to force (indirectly) a Michelist attitude upon any fan who was not ready for that attitude was to make an unnecessary opponent. The "3000 Years" argument also did bring out a number of sociological discussions among fans, notably Rothman and Speer.

Debate: Enemies and Allies

In the FAPA the Michelists made the error of attempting to use straight Communist propaganda. Many fans might not have objected to examining this but all felt that it had no place in the Fantasy Amateur Press Association. This mistake was somewhat offset by debates of a sociological nature centering around a particular science-fiction story or incident as with the ease of "3000 Years".

At around this time, Jack Speer was an object of mass-attack for his defense of fascism and soon became a chief among the oppositionists. It was not until later that the Michelists realized that the main trouble with Speer was that he did not know what he was talking about half the time and was quibbling around legal technicalities the other half. As a result, the members of the Michelist movement gave Speer no quarter. While it is true that Speer was not given quite a fair deal, as a result of this misunderstanding, it must also be noted that he himself made little or no attempt to clarify the situation but merely went on one jolly spree of red-baiting after another. His campaign in misrepresenting Michelism found some success in that it was welcomed by those who were looking around for things to throw at the Michelists, but otherwise it had no great effect. Speer, finding he was getting nowhere on a large scale, proceeded to redouble his efforts.

The first assumptions of the Michelists, however, regarding Speer were incorrect. He is not, nor ever was, a fascist. He is what is known as the "fascist-unconscious” in that he considers himself a socialist, defends some aspects of fascism without accepting the fascist line in toto, and has little or no realization of what fascism actually is. He makes a fetish out of definitions and will quibble endlessly over the turn of a phrase sacrificing the content for the lettering of a given situation. Personally amiable, talented, and above the norm in intelligence, he has little judgment of character and cannot seem to bring himself around to more than formal admission that an opponent might be sincere.

Shortly after the founding of the CPASF it was. decided to issue a fan mag devoted to the new attitude. The Science Fiction Advance was the result. It appeared twice then suspended, long intervals elapsing between issues. The Advance, despite its many faults, mainly those of balance, being nearly all theory and little of interest to the fan-in-progress, was enthusiastically received in many quarters where indifference at best was expected.

Out on the West Coast the subject of Michelism was recurring with interest. The Esperantists, as a rule, were in favour of it, and it was the subject of much discussion there. Here was given the much-neglected proof that Michelism was not necessarily Communism nor even Socialism (although the Michelist could be either) for the Esperantists were Michelists in as full a sense of the word as the New Yorkers in Wollheim's circle. Ackerman and Morojo defended the new attitude and others accepted it without becoming excited.

In the LASFL organ, Imagination, a debate between Fred Shroyer and Wollheim, with others chiming in, [...] ran for several issues until it was decided to ban Michelist discussion. Even then it continued in the "Voice". A few fans showed their correct understanding of the Michellst attitude by stating their approval of any belief or attitude which would work, in whatever small a way, for a better world. The opposition, led by Shroyer, sneered, jeered, and distorted.

It must be remembered that a number of fans opposed the movement because of personal opposition to Wollheim or because of dislike or misunderstanding of the term "Michelism". Lowndes, upon several occasions, attempted without success to change the name of the attitude. However the magazine in which the first article on this magazine in which the first article on this subject was scheduled never appeared (except for a few private copies). By the time the second article appeared it was felt that it was too late to change the name.

Meanwhile, an unexpected victory had been achieved. While other fanmags were gradually shutting down, the Science Fiction Fan opened its pages to Michelist articles. Wiggins himself favoured the attitude, and Lowndes, Michel and Wollheim had a number of items on the subject therein.

The main thing to note, however, in the general debate, is that, with a few notable exceptions (such as Kaletsky in the Advance) the opposition flatly refused to discuss the subject at all. They quibbled, evaded, distorted, vilified, and resorted to outright lies, but would not meet the subject intellectually or try to offer constructive criticism, criticism which the revolution needed. As a result, the Michelists often lost their tempers and became unnecessarily sharp in their replies.

New Fandom

The Newark Convention of 1938, however, was the first to show openly, and on a large scale, the cowardice of some of the opposition. Here the sponsors William S. Sykora (who had returned to fandom early in the year) and Sam Moskowitz imposed flat censorship on any and all speeches which might be Michelistic in nature. Knowing they could not answer the Michelists, they determined to suppress them.

The Convention's main purpose was to set in motion the machinery for the World Convention of 1939. Disregarding the Committee which already been set up for that purpose, Sykora manuvered to select a new committee, one which (he thought) would be subservient to him. During this convention gag-rule and dictatorship was the order of the day. David A. Kyle joined the Michelists in opposing Sykora, but the double-cross was put over nonetheless. Sykora had his own committee. (One which, however, he never consulted.)

[cf. Wollheim, Newark Convention]

At this convention was commenced this organization known as "New Fandom". Being run by Sykora, Moskowitz, and Taurasi after the well-known methods of Adolf Hitler, it could well be called "news". All opponents were rigidly excluded from membership, no fans not in with Sykora were permitted to have any part in the makeup of the convention, and those who did not like the way the dictators were running things had no redress save to leave the proceedings. Thus Sykora gave fandom a deadly insult and a disgrace. the actions of the convention committee supported the theory that the only way to have a World Convention in 1939 was for fandom to permit Sykora, Moskowitz, and Taurasi to strangle democratic procedure and to use all the tactics of the Nazi Bund short of physical violence toward those who did not agree.

The editors of the professional science-fiction magazines made an effort to assist fair play, but after a few desultory attempts at unity they retired to their tents and allowed the storm troopers to strut their stuff unopposed. They might have brought Sykora’s black shirts to their knees by utterly refusing to have anything to do with the convention unless full democratic procedure were followed in its preparation, by threatening to expose Sykora, but this they did not do. It is very probable that they saw the matter only as a personal issue between Wollheim and Sykora and, while regretting it, did not consider it wise to interfere. Undoubtedly they did not realize to what depths Sykora would really go.

FAPA elections and the Greater New York Science Fiction League

Meanwhile a situation was developing in the FAPA. At that time Wollheim was President, McPhail Vice-President, Baltadonis Secretary-Treasurer, and Pohl Official Editor. In view of the attitude which many of the opposition had shown it was feared that if the Philadelphia members (along with Speer) were to obtain office they would impose censorship upon material which they felt should not go into the mailings. Conceding that the Michelists had put a number of items in the mailing not belonging there, censorship was unthinkable. Another mistake made at this time was in taking Jack Speer at his word and assuming he was a fascist. In such a case then he would have upheld censorship. However as was later discovered Speer is as strict parliamentarian who would not condone the slightest who would not condone the slightest infraction of the constitution good, bad, or indifferent.

Not realizing these two facts, Wollheim saw but one course open and took it. Coming upon evidence pointing to deliberate sabotage by members of the FAPA in non-FAPA magazines (actually these things were not written with any intent to injure the organization despite their slanderous nature) and receiving a vulgar attack upon his appearance via postcard from the incumbent Secretary-Treasurer, Wollheim sent out an open letter with the ballots detailing the situation as he saw it.

We cannot tell how the results might have been otherwise, but it seems certain that the opposition candidates might have made a better showing. As it was Michel had a large majority for President, Lowndes a slight plurality for Vice-President, Speer and Wilson being tied but three votes behind; Taurasi was virtually undisputed as Secretary-Treasurer (running as he did of both tickets) and Wollheim had a majority for the post of Official Editor.

Some of the resulting bitterness might have been cleared up had the defeated candidates requested an official investigation of the charges against them, for the purpose of clearing their names at least. In a letter to Lowndes, Baltadonis stated (a few days after the results were known) that such a request would be made, but the request never came. Having no knowledge that the charges were anything but correct no action of any kind was taken by the Vice-President.

The opposition contented itself with [drawing] up a petition of reprimand and protest directed at Wollheim and circulating it around the membership.

Late in August 1938, Lowndes left Colchester for New York where he hoped to obtain work. The next two months were one of Increasing depression for the Quadrumvirate as it became increasingly apparent that nothing could be found. This depression, along with the general gloom at the international situation, had much to do with the activities on the part of the four for that period.

In the GNYSFL another situation was developing. Sykora was a prominent member there and he devoted much of his activity in an attempt to keep Wollhelm and the Michelists in general from joining, charging all sorts of fantastic and false plans on their part. The Michelists had been desirous of joining inasmuch as they did not wish to exclude themselves in ivory towers from non-Michelist fans and further wished to come to a friendly understanding with the non-Michelists on the matter of personal feuds and other items. Sykora managed to keep them off for awhile, but the membership of the GNYSFL showed that they thought of Sykora by voting their admittance.

Sykora then set out to destroy the GNYSFL just as he had destroyed other clubs (The ISA, the ILSF) which were not as he personally desired them.

The first crisis came and passed without an explosion. The issue was that of sending a delegate to the Youth Congress which the Michelists favored. A resolution was introduced to that effect, providing further that the GNYSFL contribute to the delegate's expenses. The Director, James V. Taurasi stubbornly refused to consider the matter or to allow discussion on it. The issue became one of democratic procedure and impeachment charges were brought against Taurasi. However, at the next meeting, they were dropped due to lack of mass support.

Later, however, a real issue developed. Sykora had failed to attend a number of meetings, as well as failing to pay dues and was therefore liable to expulsion. The matter was brought up; a motion to expel Sykora was made.

Taurasi positively refused to consider the motion for discussion or for vote. It was a stupid way of defending a member who might possibly be getting an unfair break. In the discussion which followed this refusal Taurasi admitted that he did not own the club but outrightly refused to consider such a motion under any circumstances.

The issue again became one of democratic procedure.

At this meeting, Claire Beck was present and had been elected to honorary membership. Inasmuch as he was not acquainted with the personal issues involved he was made judge and after hearing the case declared it to be a clear case of attempted dictatorship and stifling of democratic procedure. Taurasi was therefore impeached as chairman and, despite the objections of those present, resigned from the GNYSFL.

Sykora had evidently been waiting for this moment, for he immediately sent Taurasi to Thrilling Wonder Stories and convinced the SFL heads that the Michelists were entirely to blame for all trouble in the GNYSFL. As a result, the GNYSFL was summarily dissolved and a ruling made in reference to New York City that no SFL chapter could exist [if] both Wollheim and Sykora were members thereof.

Thus reaction gained a victory.

[cf. Speer's version]

The Futurians

Early in October, the Futurian Society of New York, an organization along Michelist lines which had been in mind for some time, was born. Originally named the Futurian Science Literary Society, the name was changed later to Futurian Society of New York. The original executive committee consisted of Donald A. Wollheim, Robert W. Lowndes, John B. Michel, Frederik Pohl, and Rudolph Castown.

While the Queens SFL was formed on the line of the old GNYSFL with Sykora, Moskowitz, and Taurasi entirely in charge, and was going along under Sykora’s customary anti-democratic measures, the Futurian Society offered a club where full and free discussion on any subject was permitted and encouraged at all times. No important conferences were held as had been tentatively planned, but the organisation continued without an official organ, professional backing, and despite the boos of the blackshirts.

However, the general personal psychological situation among the Quadrumvirate was one of deep gloom. Lack of cooperation from friends, the indifference of so-called liberals, the almost unanimous refusal of fans as a whole to meet the issue squarely, and the docile manner in which they permitted fanatics like Sykora to insult their intelligence with fascist methods all made the four wonder if it was all worth the trouble.

They finally decided, (Pohl and Michel had to all intents and purposes become inactive) to withdraw from the main fray and let the opposition have the field and the Convention to themselves in whatever way they wanted it. It would be a good test to see if anyone else would carry forward the Michelist torch. They would resign their FAPA offices and confine their activities to the Futurians and to such items of fantasy as they felt like putting in shape for the FAPA mailings. It was a nice idea.

It was in fact an excellent idea. They were thus relieved of the responsibility of keeping up correspondence or making any reply to their enemies. But the four found out they just couldn't do it. Wollheim had written Wiggins of his intention to get out and leave the field to Moskowitz. Wiggins replied asking Wollheim to stay, saying he had decided to drop Moskowitz from the pages of the Fan anyway. Had the Michelists been in higher spirits they might have protested outright exclusion of Moskowitz or any other from the Fan, demanding that Wiggins go no farther than his editorial perogative of rejecting individual manuscripts. As it was, this mistake on the part of a fellow Michelist was permitted to bring its bitter fruit.

[cf. Wollheim, Science Fiction Fan]

Lowndes then started a weekly fanmag. Intended merely as an organ of fantasy and whimsy, Le Vombiteur soon became a semi-Michelist sheet dipping into straight Michelist and even Communist propaganda. Gradually, because, despite things unliked, it was a different, unorthodox, and free magazine for anyone’s point of view, it gained headway and built up a fairly large circle of readers and subscribers. But it was the end of Lowndes' "retirement".

In addition to "LeVombiteur" Lowndes also resumed publication on the "Vagrant". The second issue was devoted partly to an explanation of why he resigned the Vice-Presidency of the FAPA (in addition to personal reasons) and contained items in response to Rothman (an associate Michelist) and his "[Science Fiction] Debater".

However, another situation was developing in the FAPA. The opposition, apparently taking the retirement of the quadrumvirate as an admission of weakness and final defeat determined to sieze the opportunity and make the most of it. Daniel McPhail, sensing the general desire in the FAPA for unity, harmony, and improvement, came out with what he called the "National Progressive" party on a 9-point program. This program was, in the main, a good one, although it had a few very bad features. It assumed that everyone who did not take something very akin to a "loyalty oath" to the present U.S. Government was an enemy of democracy or words to that effect. It tried to impose censorship in regard to discussions on religion (Although no discussion of religion had yet been held in the FAPA). It further wanted to put the FAPA in direct competition to other amateur press groups.

Despite these flaws, the Michelists believed the general idea of a non-partisan progressive circle in the FAPA to be a good one, and applied for membership. In the second issue of the "vagrant" Lowndes pointed out the weaknesses and stated the willingness of those Michelists who were also Communists to work with the progressive and make personal sacrifices for the sake of the FAPA in general.

Evidently this was the last thing McPhail desired for he immediately proceed to make a frenzied attack upon Communism, Socialism, and radicalism of any nature and made the most mawkish and sickening defense of religion (although .religion had never been attacked in the FAPA) thus violating grossly his own national progressive platform. This NP party, according to one plank in its program, was supposed to be aloof from FAPA politics but it promptly endorsed candidates for the forthcoming election with the most sickening slogans and waved the stars and stripes as it ranted about "isms".

The Michelists naturally demanded that the NP carry out its own pledges and that it respect their overtures of friendship. The "honest" and "American" candidate put forward by McPhail’s "Progressives" was none other than James V, Taurasi, who had twice been impeached for Hitler-like methods.

And another example was soon to come up. Olon F. Wiggins had written letters to Editors Palmer, Campbell, etc., protesting what appeared to be professional sponsorship of the conventions. A badly distorted version of this letter to Campbell appeared in Taurasi's "Fantasy News" followed by the type of remarks one would expect to hear from hypocritical pro-fascist "100% Americans". Whether or not Campbell himself was responsible for this (as Wiggins believed) is not known. Concomitant with this was the distortion of a letter from Wollheim questioning Sykora on the motion picture "Metropolis" which was to be shown at the convention. Sykora had stated previously that efforts were being made to obtain the picture from Nazi owners. And around this time, the FSNY had made sincere efforts to come to a friendly understanding with the Queens SFL for the sake of the convention. A proposal was made to the Queens SFL but "honest" and "American" James V. Taurasi refused to allow the membership to hear of the proposition and proceeded to insult the representative of the Futurians.

[cf. Queens Science Fiction League, notes 2 and 3]

In April, Pohl launched forth with the Futurian Federation of the World, It was an all fan organization made to offset the exclusive policies of New Fandom. Unfortunately the Futurians, at that time, were not able to give their full support and cooperation to such a venture, commendable as it was, Outside of writing of it in terms of approval Lowndes and Wollheim were able to do nothing. The Federation elicited some response, surprisingly from fans in the New Fandom orbit, then after a single issue of the "Futurian Review" the Federation went into suspended animation.

In the FAPA, Taurasi proceeded to defeat himself. In the March 1939 mailing was included three proposed amendments to the constitution upon which President Wiggins had called an immediate vote. All ballots were to be in the hands of Secretary-Treasurer Taurasi by April 3rd.

The amendments proposed (1) the definition of the term "active member" (2) that only active members should be permitted to renew their membership (3) that only active members should receive ballots in elections and that the Secretary-Treasurer would receive from the Official Editor a list of those members qualifying as "active" before ballots were sent out.

Taurasi made no effort to inform the membership of the FAPA as to the results of the vote on these amendments. He not only sent out ballots indiscriminately to all members but entirely ignored President Wiggin’s appointment of Wollheim as Custodian of Ballots. He did make an effort to obtain a list from Robert A. Madle, then acting as Official Editor.

Wollheim brought charges of illegality and the election was suspended while an investigation was held. Due to personal affairs, Vice-President Marconette was unable to hold an investigation himself and appointed Lowndes and Pohl as investigators.

The investigation proved beyond shadow of doubt that the ballots sent out were illegal but also proved that whatever sins Rothman and Madle had committed were of ommission under circumstances in which they could-not be blamed. The culprit was "honest" and "American" James V. Taurasi.

The Great Exclusion Act

On July 2, 1939, before the convention, a group of fans met at an automat to discuss things in general. Present were Wollheim, Lowndes, Kornbluth, Gillespie, David A. Kyle, Mark Reinsberg, Jack Rubinson, and others. On his own initiative Kyle, remembering what had occurred at the Newark Convention, printed a short pamphlet describing Sykora's activities in the past and warning the reader that a similar deal might be attempted at the present convention.

Later in the day, William S. Sykora held a party at Caravan Hall. All stf fans, writers, and editors, were invited. All stf fans, writers, and editors were admitted except Donald A. Wollheim, John B. Michel, Robert W. Lowndes, Frederik Pohl, Cyril Kornbluth, and Jack Gillespie. These six were refused admittance, were threatened with physical violence and arrest if they did not leave the premises. The booklets they had prepared for distribution at the convention were stolen from them.

Lowndes fails to mention explicitly that none of the other Futurians knew Kyle had printed the pamphlet (A Warning!), or that A Warning! itself was what prompted the Triumvirs to kick them out, but it's generally agreed that that's what happened. Michel and Pohl had printed some Michelistic booklets to distribute openly. Meanwhile Kyle acted on his own and hid some of his own pamphlets behind a radiator, planning to sneak them into the convention. James V. Taurasi stopped the six Futurians outside the hall because of their existing feud, but the two groups were still arguing when another fan handed Sam Moskowitz a copy of A Warning!, prompting a search that led to the hidden stash. Several other Futurians were allowed into Caravan Hall, including Kyle himself, since no one knew yet who was responsible for A Warning!

Sykora called this party a convention. World Science Fiction Convention in fact. However no fans, authors, and editors residing outside the United States were present. And instead of the 1000 which New Fandom boasted of entertaining there were no more than 150 in attendance the first day, less than 100 the second day, and less than 50 at the New Fandom banquet.

At this "convention" in preparation of which Sykora had personally spent over $250 there was no discussion of any nature permitted. No one was called upon to speak publicly except such people Sykora thought he could trust not to expose him. To his credit, Editor Campbell tried to get Sykora to admit the six fans exiled, or at the very least to call for a vote on the question, but Sykora positively refused stating that he would call the convention off rather than admit Wollheim, Lowndes, Michel, Pohl, Kornbluth and Gillespie. Thus they were not admitted.

To the credit of Sam Moskowitz, it must be said tnat he tried to get Sykora to allow the six to enter on their pledges not to start trouble. He was promptly overruled by Sykora and Taurasi who did not dare face the six at a public meeting.

At the "convention" a number of fans (Leslie Perri, Dale Hart, David A. Kyle, Walter Sullivan) and others did their best to break down Sykora's dictatorship but without success. Kyle managed to slip in a statement that the six should be admitted at the end of his speech and the suggestion was greeted with prolonged applause. Leslie Perri called for a vote, but Sykora stated that no motions would be considered. Morojo and Ackerman did what they could, but Sykora cared for the opinions and wishes of no one except himself.

Thus again William S. Sykora greeted fandom with an exhibition of cowardice and fascist technique, with a deadly insult.

The Futurian Conference

On Tuesday, July 4th, 1939, the Futurians held a special meeting for the out-of-town fans. Everyone was invited; everyone was encourgaed to speak on any subject; everyone present was permitted to vote on motion broached. At this meeting was discussing the future of science-fiction organizations, the recent convention (a vote of disapproval was passed with but one dissenting vote from a person who felt stronger words should have been used), the prospects of future conventions, the situation in the FAPA, and the general subject of Michelism. It was, in fact the first Michelist conference, for, after questions had been answered from the floor, Wollheim, Lowndes, Michel, Pohl, and the chairman, Cyril Kornbluth were appointed as an answering committee) it was determined that all present shared the Michelist attitude.

At this meeting arose for a final decision a question which had long been troubling many fans. The question of the name "Michelism". Despite the claims on one side that "a rose by any other name is just as sweet" and that no change would lay ourselves open to vulgar attacks of all nature, it was felt that this attitude was so much bigger than any given person that to name it after a person was to dilute and distort it ( no slur upon Michel). Kenneth Sterling, -John B. Michel, Milton A. Rothman, Forrest J. Ackerman and others indicated their agreement with this, At the first vote the motion was defeated. Frederik Pohl later called for reconsideration and, a vote being passed the matter was again discussed and again put to a vote. This time, it was passed unanimously.

David A. Kyle brought up the subject of the Association for Democracy in Science-Fiction. A temporary committee had been named when the informal gathering met at the automat prior to going around to Caravan Hall. Should the Association continue, or, now that the convention was over, dissolve? It was decided that so.long as William S. Sykora and his associates remained in the science-fiction field, an association for democracy in science-fiction was a necessity. Kyle was authorized to select a committee.

Michel was named head of a committee to find a suitable name for this Michelist attitude.

The meeting of July 4th, 1939 was the culmination of nearly two years of Michelist endeavor. It was a triumph for the Michelist concept of science-fiction. It was a triumph for the Michelist concept as applied to science-fiction fandom.

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