Alfred Bester was an American science fiction author, TV and radio scriptwriter, magazine editor, and scripter for comic strips and comic books. Known for his profound impact on the genre, he is best remembered for his science fiction works, including The Demolished Man, which won the inaugural Hugo Award in 1953. His storytelling prowess extended beyond novels, influencing modern science fiction as attested by fellow author Harry Harrison, who stated, "Alfred Bester was one of the handful of writers who invented modern science fiction."

Before his death, Bester's contributions to science fiction were recognized by the Science Fiction Writers of America (SFWA), which named him its ninth Grand Master, an honor presented posthumously in 1988. Additionally, the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame inducted him in 2001, cementing his legacy in the genre.

Despite his success, Bester was known for his sporadic contributions to science fiction, leading to his reputation as a "comet" author. His fascination with time travel, the consequences thereof, and the possession of paranormal powers or Psi are recurring themes in his work, notably in his two most celebrated novels, The Demolished Man and The Stars My Destination. The latter is often credited by critics as a pioneering work of the cyberpunk movement due to its style.