Nor is "Waldo" the only story that critics have derided this tension between the rational world of science and the more irrational world of fantasy. Heinlein's entire canon, particularly Assignment in Eternity, demonstrates this science fiction versus fantasy tension.

Other critics have commented on Heinlein's ability to draw a complete world in his fiction, not simply a single technological difference to distinguish the fictional world from the actual, but a well- fleshed-out new world that is still somehow familiar. Brown comments on this when he states that "broadcast power is the invention that makes the world of "Waldo" possible. Instead of just replacing automobiles with radiant power vehicles, Heinlein mentions some of the changes which have happened. . . . There is enough background texture."

While Heinlein's worlds are often praised, his characterizations have more often drawn fire from the critics, especially his characterizations of women. Despite lip service...