Garrett, Randall

Gordon Randall Phillip David Garrett (1927–1987) was an American author recognized for his contributions to science fiction and fantasy literature. He was a regular contributor to prominent magazines like Astounding during the 1950s and 60s. Garrett also collaborated with other authors, notably Robert Silverberg, on novels that explored themes of alien civilizations and Earth's influence. He was known for his wit, wordplay, and unique approach to storytelling.

Garrett's most celebrated work is the "Lord Darcy" series, set in an alternate 20th century where magic is scientifically understood and a Plantagenet dynasty still rules. These stories, including the novel "Too Many Magicians," are characterized by intricate plots, humor, and numerous literary allusions, particularly to detective fiction, with Lord Darcy himself being a pastiche of Sherlock Holmes. Beyond his own name, Garrett utilized various pseudonyms, such as David Gordon and Darrel T. Langart, to publish his diverse range of stories. He was also a founding member of the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA). His writing career was significantly impacted by a severe viral infection in 1979 that led to amnesia and hospitalization, ultimately limiting his ability to work for the remainder of his life.

Randall Garrett is perhaps best known for his "Lord Darcy" series, a collection of works set in an alternate timeline. In this world, magic has been codified and scientifically understood, and a joint Anglo-French empire, still led by a Plantagenet royal line, persists into the twentieth century. The central character, Lord Darcy, is modeled after Sherlock Holmes, and the stories are rich with wordplay, puns, and references to detective and spy fiction. The series includes the novel "Too Many Magicians" and several short story collections. Garrett's exploration of an alternate history where magical principles are integrated into societal structure offered a unique take on the genre. His work in this area was posthumously recognized with the Sidewise Award for Alternate History Special Achievement.

Throughout his career, Garrett employed a wide array of pseudonyms to publish his writings, including David Gordon, John Gordon, Darrel T. Langart (an anagram of his name), Alexander Blade, Richard Greer, Ivar Jorgensen, Clyde Mitchell, Leonard G. Spencer, S. M. Tenneshaw, and Gerald Vance. This practice allowed him to explore different styles or perhaps to manage the output of his prolific writing. He also collaborated with other authors, most notably Robert Silverberg on the Nidorian series under the joint pseudonym Robert Randall. Garrett also co-authored works with Laurence Janifer, using the pseudonym Mark Phillips, and with his wife, Vicki Ann Heydron, on the Gandalara Cycle fantasy series, which was largely written by Heydron based on Garrett's initial drafts and outlines.

Garrett was a vibrant personality within the science fiction community, known for his wit and participation in conventions. He was a founding member of the Society for Creative Anachronism, adopting the punning moniker "Randall of Hightower." His personal life was marked by a significant health crisis in 1979 when he contracted a viral infection that resulted in severe amnesia. This condition necessitated long-term care and hospitalization, profoundly impacting his ability to write. His wife, Vicki Ann Heydron, served as his caregiver for a period before he was hospitalized in 1981. Despite efforts towards recovery, he remained hospitalized until his death in 1987, with his condition described as a permanent injury.

“coito ergo sum”