Intellectual Stimulants - Stranger In A Strange Land

How well would you adjust to an entirely new way of life? Its a question that we never ask ourselves, but its something that every person goes through at some point in their lives. Stranger In A Strange Land, written by Robert A. Heinlein, should have told the harrowing tale of half martian-half man Valentine Michael Smith's journey from Mars to Earth and that troubles that accompany such a voyage. Instead, the book focuses almost entirely on the consequences of religion. The potential story lines involving Michael and his martian/human ancestry, along with the evident complications that would arise in such a situation, are merely glossed over so more pages could be wasted on pointless banter regarding the many issues and commandments of organized religion. 

While its not surprising to learn of Heinlein's influence for the novel (Exodus 2:22), it is rather disappointing that the rich science-fiction setting has to step aside and allow a non-scientific medium to take center stage. Stranger In A Strange Land has dubiously been given the title of "The Most Famous Science Fiction Novel Ever Written." Whomever placed this incredulous honor upon this novel clearly gave it for suspect reasons.

But the fact remains that I was able to finish the book, which does warrant some credit. Alas, my sole interest in the book was in title alone, shared by a song written and performed by Iron Maiden. In my haste to purchase a science fiction book to slake my nerd thirst, I neglected to do any thorough research, which would have clearly highlighted the deep religious underpinnings of this novel. That alone would have dissuaded me from making that particular purchase, but I do not regret my decision. Sometimes the mind needs to explore different avenues of thought to remain fresh and active. In order to better examine our own beliefs and ideals.

Although that does not excuse the severity and frequency at which seemingly "main" characters central to the plot just drop right of the face of the novel, replaced by more water-sharing and nudity. This book was clearly not intended for me, and I do not wish to tarnish the name or reputation of this novel or its author. If you find your library lacking a meta-psychological journey that extends from Mars to Earth, you'd be hard pressed to find a more fitting novel than Stranger In A Strange Land.