Legendary feminist Ursula Le Guin refuses blurb for all-male sci-fi anthology is perfect

Women supporting one another is one of the most powerful sights in today’s world. American author Ursula Le Guin, known for her groundbreaking work in fiction, had a brilliant way of standing up for female representation. She was asked to write a blurb for Synergy: New Science Fiction, an anthology by George Zebrowski, according to Letters of Note. But when Le Guin realized the anthology featured only male writers, she had a bold response. In a letter to senior editor John Radziewicz, she didn’t hold back.

Le Guin explained that she’d much rather write a blurb for a different book than one so clearly male-centered. She wrote, “Dear Mr. Radziewicz, I can imagine myself blurbing a book in which Brian Aldiss, predictably, sneers at my work, because then I could preen myself on my magnanimity.” But she couldn’t see herself endorsing an anthology that only featured male writers. “I cannot imagine myself blurbing a book, the first of a series, which not only contains no writing by women, but whose tone is so self-contentedly, exclusively male—like a club, or a locker room. That would not be magnanimity, but foolishness.”

She concluded with a sassy phrase that read, “Gentlemen, I don’t belong here.” She further signed the letter, marking her signature boldly. Ever since her response was shared, the author’s words have gone viral, making a statement for women. Le Guin single-handedly called out the anthology and the casual skipping of female writers’ contributions boldly. The letter was also posted on the source’s X page on the occasion of Women’s Day to highlight the importance of females and celebrate their sassy and savage potential.

Several people were impressed with her words and cheered her magnificent view. @lukemaynard wrote, “I once called UKL a personal hero of mine. I stand by it. Girls need more heroes who are bold, outspoken women.” @publiclandlvr added, “Ursula K. Le Guin, you make words dance and my heart sings along.” @axelebourne42 exclaimed, “And that's why LeGuin is and always will be a badass. Shockingly underrated writer.”

The letter was reshared in January 2018, after the author’s passing away with a heartfelt caption. The caption read, “RIP Ursula Le Guin. Here she is in 1987, turning down an offer to blurb an all-male sci-fi anthology.” Several people applauded the author for her perspective and fearless opinion on sexism and commended her for taking a stand.

@shoreinf wrote, “We're about to release a sci-fi magazine with all women contributors. Ursula K Le Guin will be sorely missed, but her strength lives on.” @CarstheElectric added, “Priceless! We are lucky to have had her. Her death is a loss but (genre-)literature has gained so much from her. To a great writer!” @FionaDoris added, “A champion of good writing, women, and fairness to the end. Fly free Ursula you magnificent woman of letters.”