Dear friends and readers:
I have officially withdrawn my acceptance of the Best Novel nomination for “Lines of Departure” at this year’s Hugo Awards.
It has come to my attention that “Lines of Departure” was one of the nomination suggestions in Vox Day’s “Rabid Puppies” campaign. Therefore—and regardless of who else has recommended the novel for award consideration—the presence of “Lines of Departure” on the shortlist is almost certainly due to my inclusion on the “Rabid Puppies” slate. For that reason, I had no choice but to withdraw my acceptance of the nomination. I cannot in good conscience accept an award nomination that I feel I may not have earned solely with the quality of the nominated work.
I also wish to disassociate myself from the originator of the “Rabid Puppies” campaign. To put it bluntly: if this nomination gives even the appearance that Vox Day or anyone else had a hand in giving it to me because of my perceived political leanings, I don’t want it. I want to be nominated for awards because of the work, not because of the “right” or “wrong” politics.
Thank you to everyone who voted for “Lines of Departure” because you read the novel and genuinely thought it worthy of award recognition. Please be assured that I did not reach this decision lightly, and that I don’t want to nullify or minimize your opinion. But keeping the nomination is not a moral option at this point, and I hope you will understand.
This is my choice alone, and I am making it without pressure from any side in the current Hugo debate. Please respect it as such.
Marko Kloos
April 15, 2015
I tip my hat to you. You’re a class act!
I don’t pay much attention to the Hugos, I buy books because I want to read them. But I’ll pick yours up. Classy people like you deserve a spending vote.
(And the descriptions sound like they’re darn good books anyhow!)
Here’s hoping there’s no such thing as bad publicity. Also, I just bought both your frontline books after having a look at them in Amazon. Looking forward to reading them!
A strong statement and kudos to you for doing what you felt was the right thing.
I will order a copy of your novel tonight.
That sucks man.
Loved LOD , would’ve liked to see it win, but totally understand why you’re doing this.
I haven’t read it, but based on what a class act the author is, I’m buying a copy and giving it a go.
It’s my deadline day, so I don’t have time to read the comments, for which I apologize, but: Good, clear statement. I’ll look for your book once I get paid.
It’s entirely possible that Mr. Kloos may have made more sales after this announcement than he would have if he’d actually won the Hugo. Ah, irony, I love you so.
I was thinking the same thing (as I wait for it to hit my kindle). Isn’t there a Ferengi rule about profiting from your own misfortunes? No? Should be.
I completely understand your decision, though I’m disappointed. The Hugo awards should be about the quality of someone’s work- not about having the “wrong” sort of fans. I find it unfortunate, judging by this comment thread alone, that your decision has fanned the flames and convinced the critics of SP that the “shame” strategy works.
Like I said, I understand your decision, as sad as it makes me.
Shit man I am glad to call you friend. You’ve got more balls and integrity than all your haters combined. You’ll survive this and rise above. Proud of you.
I enjoyed “Terms of Enlistment” a hell of a lot. I can only imagine how difficult this decision must have been for you, but for what it’s worth, it kind of makes you my new hero. I know I’ll read many good novels from you in the future.
Tough decision.
I hope you gain a lot of readers for making it. I’ll be one to check out your stuff.
And now I will go read your story.
I, for one, applaud your integrity. I will make a point of buying and reading your book.
Dear people that are posting angry: the author owes you *nothing*. Don’t respond with hate. Its up to you if you feel entitled to those feelings, but really, you’re just making yourself look bad. I’ll still give you a hug though.
Jesus; you must have a low bar for anger…I don’t see any particularly angry posts here. Some comments that he should not have done it….but nothing angry….
You’re a Gentleman, Sir.
I see from some of the comments that you have visitors who believe you owe them something. This, if nothing else, truly highlights the correctness of your decision. You’re going to need a Rocket Shelf, and a Nebula Shelf to go with it. And you’ll do it without owing anyone a damned thing – regardless of what they say.
You may not have a Hugo, but you have already won.
I’m not sure what post you meant to reply to, but the one you actually replied to was stating the poster’s own opinion, not forcing an opinion on Mr. Kloos. This is signified by the use of the phrase “I think” at the beginning of the post.
Your Blogarado invite was already secure and to be extended via a mutual friend , However I will personally and publicly Invite you out for the weekend of madcap hijinks right now . Columbus day weekend if you can make it . Dont hesitate to contact me or just visit with that redhead house sitter you have once in a while . All the best to you and yours
Bob.
Congrats on the nomination. And the courage to withdraw. I’m sorry you have now become a target of the whiney puppies of all stripes. If they truly had open minds and hearts they would not have made this mess.
I do not think this will be your last nomination. Not by a long shot. Good on you Marko. I know I will defy their high jacking and keep buying and reading what appeals to me. Not what I’m bullied to. You get my money.
This was an incredibly brave choice, and I commend you for it.