Heinlein's Ghost

An article implies that Robert A. Heinlein's influence is declining. The evidence? That the literati don't take him seriously anymore. Is being compared to Heinlein a help or hindrance to a new science fiction writer? One such writer speaks up (and to be honest, the main reason I picked up John Scalzi's books was because of the comparison to Heinlein!)

Looks like it is time to trot out this 1980 essay by Spider Robinson again!

Addendum (December 12, 2007): I suggest a visit back to the posting at John Scalzi's site. Lots of interesting discussion going on there! Some forgotten and faded author Heinlein is!