Reluctant Genius

"Reluctant Genius" by O. H. Leslie is a speculative fiction short story published in the mid-20th century, specifically in the 1950s. The work explores themes of potential and the struggle for understanding within the context of human development and evolution. It examines the relationship between celestial observers and humanity's capability to advance scientifically and creatively. The narrative follows two ethereal beings, Buos and Laloi, who are tasked with observing the developmental progress of humanity on a lush planet. Buos is frustrated with the slow pace of human understanding, while Laloi finds beauty in the world, expressing a desire to immerse herself in it. They discuss their concerns that the “man-creature” they observe may not realize his potential without external stimulation. Ultimately, they witness a moment of inspiration in a man who ponders a fallen apple, symbolizing the potential for human insight and growth. The story concludes with a sense of hope that humanity, assisted by the observers, will eventually rise to their knowledge and destiny. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Henry Slesar was an American author and playwright. He is famous for his use of irony and twist endings. After reading Slesar's "M Is for the Many" in Ellery Queen's Mystery Magazine, Alfred Hitchcock bought it for adaptation and they began many successful collaborations. Slesar wrote hundreds of scripts for television series and soap operas, leading TV Guide to call him "the writer with the largest audience in America."