The lecture will help to understand the development of one of the wittiest authors of science fiction in the 20th century. Robert Sheckley's work occupies a special place in the history of science fiction. His works combine intellectual play, irony, and reflections on humanity, technology, and the future. This meeting is dedicated to the early stages of the writer's journey - the time when his authorial style was forming and ideas emerged that defined the further development of his literature. The conversation will focus on the 1950s - a period of active development of Sheckley as an author. Participants will learn what themes interested the writer at the beginning of his career, how his view of science fiction changed, and why his texts remain relevant to this day. The lecture will be conducted by Stanislav Zolotko, a literature enthusiast. Our website features the current program of Saint Petersburg.