Here are some of his most notable works:
Novels:
* The Ballad of Beta-2 (1953) - This was Smith's first novel, and it established many of the themes and ideas that would become hallmarks of his work.
* The Rediscovery of Man (1953) - A sequel to "The Ballad of Beta-2", exploring the consequences of humanity's rediscovery of its past.
* Norstrilia (1975) - An ambitious and complex novel that explores the themes of colonialism, slavery, and the nature of humanity.
Short Story Collections:
* The Best of Cordwainer Smith (1975) - A collection of some of Smith's most popular and influential short stories.
* The Instrumentality of Mankind (1987) - A posthumous collection of Smith's stories, featuring some of his most experimental and challenging work.
* The Dead Lady of Clown Town (1988) - Another posthumous collection, focusing on Smith's more whimsical and humorous writing.
Notable Short Stories:
* "Scanners Live in Vain" (1950) - A classic story that explores the nature of technology, consciousness, and the human condition.
* "The Ballad of Lost C'Mell" (1962) - A poignant story about the relationship between a human and an alien creature.
* "The Game of Rat and Dragon" (1966) - A thrilling story about a group of human explorers trapped in a dangerous alien world.
* "The Lady Who Sailed the Soul" (1969) - A complex and thought-provoking story about a woman who travels to a distant planet to find her husband.
Themes in Cordwainer Smith's Work:
* Humanity and the Future: Smith's work often explores the possibilities of human evolution, both biological and technological. He often explores themes of colonialism, slavery, and the nature of humanity.
* Technology and Society: Smith's work is full of sophisticated and imaginative technology, often used to explore the ways in which technology can both empower and enslave humanity.
* The Power of Story: Smith believed in the power of stories to change the world, and his work is often filled with moral and philosophical reflections on the nature of good and evil.
Cordwainer Smith's work is considered a major influence on modern science fiction, and his stories continue to be read and enjoyed by generations of readers. He is known for his rich, imaginative worlds, his complex and unforgettable characters, and his ability to raise profound questions about the human condition.