Harlan Ellison's Complex Feelings About Star Trek

Did Harlan Ellison truly love or hate Star Trek, given his complicated relationship with the phenomenon?

Introduction

Harlan Ellison, known as one of the most influential writers in the sci-fi and fantasy genres, had a complex relationship with Star Trek. Through numerous interviews and videos on YouTube, his perspective on the shows, particularly the original series, emerges as one of deep ambivalence. This article explores his feelings, the underlying reasons, and the significant impact on his artistic vision and career.

Harlan Ellison: The Enthusiastic Creator

Despite his egocentric nature, there was a part of Harlan Ellison that was undoubtedly proud of his contributions to Star Trek. Working on the show, he embraced the medium and perhaps even loved specific aspects of it. His involvement in the original series left him with a legacy that still resonates today, especially considering his critical yet appreciative stance.

Ambivalence: A Mix of Love and Critique

Ellison's feelings towards Star Trek are best described as ambivalent. He appreciated the parts he worked on and the platform it provided, even as he was ‘butchered’ by what he likely deemed lesser talents and for financial considerations. This duality reflects his inner struggle, where the child in him held a love for the show, while his elitist and purist nature found it difficult to fully embrace its mainstream appeal.

Elitism and Purism: A Burning Auteur

Ellison’s feelings align with his nickname, "flaming Auteur and Artist." He was an ardent advocate for his genre, sci-fi and fantasy, and sought to elevate them from the perceived "pulp fiction" status. His sharp critique of Star Trek’s "monster of the week" tendencies mirrored his broader concern for the commercialism and lack of substantive storytelling in the entertainment industry.

Paradox of Appreciation and Criticism

While Ellison's medium was indeed popular culture, characterized by fantastic and speculative narratives, he was wary of the term "pulp fiction." This paradoxical stance—appreciating the genre while criticizing it—reveals his deep-seated idealism and passion for high-quality storytelling. His desire to see science fiction and fantasy elevate people's minds and souls reflects a core commitment to their artistic and intellectual value.

The Impact on Star Trek

Ellison's criticisms were not without impact. His persistent public critiques about the shows’ direction and thematic focus may have influenced the development of subsequent series like Star Trek: The Next Generation. Gene Roddenberry, the creator of the original series, is credited for substantially addressing these issues, manifesting a potential subconscious response to Ellison's concerns.

Conclusion

Harlan Ellison’s relationship with Star Trek remains a complex amalgamation of love and critique. While he held the show in high regard, his elitist and purist nature made it difficult for him to fully embrace its mainstream popularity. His vision for the genre underscored an idealistic pursuit of artistic excellence and intellectual stimulation, leaving a lasting impact on the landscape of sci-fi and fantasy.

Further Exploration

To gain a deeper understanding, consider listening to Harlan Ellison’s discussion on Tom Snyders’ "Tomorrow", where his insights provide valuable context to his feelings about Star Trek.

Keywords: Harlan Ellison, Star Trek, Sci-Fi Cynicism, Art vs. Popular Culture, Idealism