H.P. Lovecraft's bust is itself a bust with fantasy writers' guild

North Carolina writer Manly Wade Wellman (1903-86) and his Howard

The World Fantasy Award for writers is no longer to be the bust of H.P. Lovecraft designed by longtime Playboy cartoonist Gahan Wilson. The decision comes after several years of campaigning by scifi and fantasy writers who argue the Howards, as the awards are known, come freighted with the frank racism that pervades Lovecraft’s own writings, and so taints the value of the work of modern day winners who come from all races and genders.

Many contend a more suitable subject is the pioneering African-American scifi writer Octavia Butler (1947- ). No announcement has been made about the post-Lovecraft design.

Henry Bemis’ 125th birthday appreciation of Lovecraft is here.