Let There Be Light

Future History or "Heinlein Timeline" #2

by Robert A. Heinlein

“Let There Be Light”" a science fiction short story by Robert A. Heinlein, originally published in "Super Science Stories" magazine in May 1940 under the pseudonym Lyle Monroe.
The story concerns the invention of "light panels" - devices which turn electrical power directly into light (similar to LEDs, invented in 1962). In the course of their discovery, the inventors also discover that these panels can also be used to derive power from light. In attempting to bring their discovery to market, they encounter the active opposition of the Power Syndicate, a conglomeration of energy-producing companies dedicated to preserving their monopoly on power production

Genres: Science Fiction

Paperback

Published January 1, 1940

About the author

Robert Anson Heinlein was an American science fiction author, aeronautical engineer, and naval officer. Sometimes called the "dean of science fiction writers", he was among the first to emphasize scientific accuracy in his fiction, and was thus a pioneer of the subgenre of hard science fiction. His published works, both fiction and non-fiction, express admiration for competence and emphasize the value of critical thinking. His plots often posed provocative situations which challenged conventional social mores. His work continues to have an influence on the science-fiction genre, and on modern culture more generally.
Heinlein became one of the first American science-fiction writers to break into mainstream magazines such as The Saturday Evening Post in the late 1940s. He was one of the best-selling science-fiction novelists for many decades, and he, Isaac Asimov, and Arthur C. Clarke are often considered the "Big Three" of English-language science fiction authors. Notable Heinlein works include Stranger in a Strange Land, Starship Troopers (which helped mold the space marine and mecha archetypes) and The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress. His work sometimes had controversial aspects, such as plural marriage in The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress, militarism in Starship Troopers and technologically competent women characters who were formidable, yet often stereotypically feminine—such as Friday.
Heinlein used his science fiction as a way to explore provocative social and political ideas and to speculate how progress in science and engineering might shape the future of politics, race, religion, and sex. Within the framework of his science-fiction stories, Heinlein repeatedly addressed certain social themes: the importance of individual liberty and self-reliance, the nature of sexual relationships, the obligation individuals owe to their societies, the influence of organized religion on culture and government, and the tendency of society to repress nonconformist thought. He also speculated on the influence of space travel on human cultural practices.
Heinlein was named the first Science Fiction Writers Grand Master in 1974. Four of his novels won Hugo Awards. In addition, fifty years after publication, seven of his works were awarded "Retro Hugos"—awards given retrospectively for works that were published before the Hugo Awards came into existence. In his fiction, Heinlein coined terms that have become part of the English language, including grok, waldo and speculative fiction, as well as popularizing existing terms like "TANSTAAFL", "pay it forward", and "space marine". He also anticipated mechanical computer-aided design with "Drafting Dan" and described a modern version of a waterbed in his novel Beyond This Horizon.
Also wrote under Pen names: Anson McDonald, Lyle Monroe, Caleb Saunders, John Riverside and Simon York.

Reviews

[Jeff Yoak · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read this many times before, but somehow Goodreads lost that data.

[Alex Memus · Rating 3 out of 5]

Хайнлайн пошлит и бросает слова словно кирпичи (ноль элегантности тут). Но по науке ноль вопросов, тут Хайнлайн пророк и предсказывает солнечные панели и пушбэк нефтяных гигантов. Да и развязка с публичным патентом в духе Теслы -- тоже топ.

[Julio Belmonte · Rating 3 out of 5]

This second story of Heinlein’s future history series is a lot like the first. A scientist invents a revolutionary new thing that threatens the corporate status quo, and is thus pressured into selling out and harassed by the powers that be. This story is often omitted from The Past Through Tomorrow, but I wish it were included. I feel that the story’s invention (hyper efficient & cheap solar panels, basically) will serve as a catalyst for some later technological advances as Heinlein’s future history rolls on.

[Nataliia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now I understand where my way of thinking might be coming from. I love this books and all the truth inside it. We are not yet able to transform the world to a great place to be: with so many geniuine discoveries, oilless, with robust materials and instruments that near-never break down or lose their quality, with near-endlessly shining lamps etc. etc. The real solutions exist, but production is prevented for the humanity being greedy and stubborn... Recommending this book to everyone

[Forked Radish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good realistic stuff with a Hedy Lamarr “character” (women aren’t cats and therefore, don’t have souls) gratis. Earlier the better for Heinlein seems to be the rule. He must have come up with some great alphabet soup phrases as a toddler.

[Ryan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent short story about a new form of energy technology (remarkably like LEDs...) and how it is a threat to incumbents. The tech side is comically antiquated, and the story itself is very awkward in parts (the romance plot particularly).

[Mark · Rating 2 out of 5]

Mostly boring with outdated science that is now mundane. One of the worst romances, despite a solid meet cute. Only interesting part is towards the end.