David Gerrold Archives – Andrew Gibson Author Narrator Editor Curator

The Trek to Fame: ‘The Trouble with Tribbles’

David Gerrold’s career catapulted into prominence when he was just 23 years old. His script for “The Trouble with Tribbles” was accepted by the “Star Trek” team, and it became one of the most iconic and beloved episodes of the series. Gerrold ingeniously introduced the character of the Tribble, a small, fluffy creature that reproduces at an alarming rate, serving both as comic relief and a narrative device to critique unchecked population growth and ecological irresponsibility.

Prolific Authorship

Gerrold has written dozens of novels across various sub-genres of science fiction. Noteworthy among them is the “War Against the Chtorr” series, a post-apocalyptic saga still awaiting completion. The series delves into ecological themes, exploring the invasion of Earth by an alien ecosystem. Other significant works include “When HARLIE Was One,” one of the pioneering narratives about artificial intelligence, and “The Man Who Folded Himself,” a time-travel novel rich in its exploration of identity and the implications of manipulating time.

Recognition and Impact

Gerrold has received several prestigious awards for his contributions to science fiction, including the Hugo and Nebula Awards. His reach goes beyond mere accolades, as his work has inspired countless fans and fellow authors to explore social, ethical, and scientific themes through the lens of speculative fiction.

Published in 1973, “The Man Who Folded Himself” by David Gerrold is an audacious exploration of time travel and personal identity. The novella has been regarded as a hallmark of speculative fiction, one that sidesteps traditional paradoxes associated with time travel to dive into the deeper philosophical and existential issues that such a concept naturally invokes.

The Time Belt: A Device Beyond Measure

The central plot device, the “time belt,” allows the protagonist, Daniel Eakins, an unprecedented ability to travel through time. Unlike many time-travel devices in other narratives, this one allows Daniel not just to revisit past moments but also to encounter alternate versions of himself. This facet enables Gerrold to move beyond simplistic “cause and effect” paradoxes and examine more intricate, self-referential paradoxes.

A Multitude of Selves

What sets “The Man Who Folded Himself” apart is its relentless focus on the self. In most time-travel stories, the protagonist is warned not to interact with their past or future selves; here, that’s virtually the entire plot. Gerrold challenges our notions of individuality and identity by making Daniel confront, converse with, and even form relationships with different versions of himself from various timelines. For instance, at one point, Daniel attends a party exclusively populated by his alternate selves, each one representing a decision made or path taken.

The Fluidity of Identity

The novella is daring in its treatment of sexuality and personal relationships. The various Daniels form intimate relationships with one another, making the story a groundbreaking exploration of sexual fluidity long before such concepts entered mainstream discourse. Gerrold challenges our social constructs, suggesting that identity is not a fixed point but a spectrum, influenced by time, choice, and context.

Ethical Implications

The book doesn’t shy away from the ethical implications of time travel. When one possesses the ability to reshape history according to their whims, what is the moral compass guiding those choices? The lines between self-interest and altruism blur as Daniel grapples with the enormity of his newfound power.

The Tug of Fate and Choice

One of the fascinating threads in the novella is the tension between fate and free will. Despite having the power to alter events, Daniel comes to recognize certain “fixed points” in his life—moments that appear immutable, which adds a layer of tragedy to his omnipotence.

Gerrold’s Contribution to Science Fiction

David Gerrold, already known for his script for the classic “Star Trek” episode “The Trouble with Tribbles,” solidified his place in the science fiction pantheon with this novella. He not only explores the “what-ifs” of time travel but also delves into the existential crises that would inevitably accompany it.

Conclusion: An Ever-Unfolding Enigma

“The Man Who Folded Himself” offers more than just a time-traveling escapade; it provides a mirror reflecting our inner complexities. By disrupting linear time and the singular self, Gerrold questions the very notions that anchor our understanding of reality. The result is a story that, much like its protagonist, perpetually unfolds into new and unexpected shapes.