Zealot Script

Spiral Tower Press has recently established the Trigon Awards to honor those who have made significant contributions to the pulp genres of science fiction, fantasy, and supernatural horror. These awards aim to recognize individuals who embody the values celebrated by the enigmatic sorcerer’s trigon: chronopolitanism, compassion, and hope.

The Trigon Awards consist of three categories: literary achievement, scholarly achievement, and special achievement. The winners are chosen by a rotating and anonymous committee known as “The Trigon Committee,” who nominate and select the awardees. While there is no formal nominating process, the committee welcomes advice and suggestions. The nominees are kept secret and are not announced or discussed publicly.

The second Trigon Awards were recently presented at SpiralCon 2, held at Christopher Newport University on Saturday, July 15th. Congratulations to the deserving awardees!

Rusty Burke was recognized for his scholarly achievement. As the President of the Robert E. Howard Foundation, Burke has dedicated himself to promoting a better understanding of the life and works of Robert E. Howard, the creator of sword and sorcery. He has edited numerous editions of Howard’s work for various publishers and has published countless articles on Howard’s writings. Burke also founded The Dark Man: Journal of Robert E. Howard and Pulp Studies and co-organizes Howard Days, an annual celebration of Howard’s art and legacy.

For literary achievement, Old Moon Quarterly was acknowledged. This independent magazine focuses on publishing weird sword-and-sorcery fiction set in historical paranormal or secondary-world settings. The editorial staff at OMQ skillfully balances the pulp genre tradition with modern, artful, and poignant storytelling. Their dedication to well-rounded characters and captivating narratives is commendable. Additionally, OMQ pays its contributors a fair rate of 8 cents-per-word, which deserves recognition.

Toni Weisskopf received the special achievement award for her outstanding contributions as the editor and publisher of Baen Books, a renowned press in the realms of fantasy and science fiction. Weisskopf has been nominated for the prestigious Hugo Award four times and has won the Phoenix Award, the Rebel Award, and the Neffy Award for best editor. Her unwavering support and stewardship of the pulp genres, particularly sword and sorcery, military science fiction, and epic fantasy, make her a true champion in the field.

The Trigon Awards, although not accompanied by financial remuneration, hold great significance in recognizing the artistic, intellectual, and passionate commitment of individuals to the pulp genres. The awardees receive a certificate as a token of appreciation for their exceptional contributions.

Spiral Tower Press and The Trigon Committee are to be commended for establishing these awards and shining a light on the past, present, and future of science fiction, fantasy, and supernatural horror. The Trigon Awards serve as a testament to the enduring power of these genres and the individuals who dedicate themselves to their preservation and advancement.