“. . . Moon-Watcher felt the first faint twinges of a new and potent emotion. It was a vague and diffuse sense of envy--of dissatisfaction with his life. He had no idea of its cause, still less of its cure; but discontent had come into his soul, and he had taken one small step toward humanity.”

English science fiction writer, inventor, undersea explorer and TV series host

Arthur C. Clarke was an English science fiction writer, inventor, undersea explorer, and television series host. He became especially well known for writing fiction that imagined the future with unusual clarity and for taking part in popular science broadcasting. Clarke’s work brought together science, technology, and speculation about what humans might build and discover. Beyond his writing, he was also active as an inventor and explored the sea, interests that fit the practical curiosity that runs through his public life and work.