Personal experiences:
* Card's own experiences as a child: He was often a target of bullying, and the themes of childhood innocence and the harsh realities of war resonated with him.
* His religious beliefs: Card is a devout Mormon, and his faith influenced the book's themes of sacrifice, responsibility, and the complexities of good and evil.
* His military service: Card served in the US Army, which gave him firsthand knowledge of military strategy and the psychology of soldiers.
Literary and cultural influences:
* Science fiction classics: Card was heavily influenced by writers like Isaac Asimov, Robert Heinlein, and Arthur C. Clarke, whose works explored themes of space travel, artificial intelligence, and the future of humanity.
* The Vietnam War: The war's profound impact on American society and its exploration of moral dilemmas in conflict deeply influenced Card's approach to war in "Ender's Game".
* The Cold War: The threat of nuclear annihilation and the constant fear of global conflict were also major influences on the book's themes.
Specific inspirations:
* Card's own "Ender's Game" short story: He wrote the original short story in 1977, which laid the foundation for the novel's core elements.
* The concept of "genius" and its potential for both good and evil: This was a recurring theme in Card's work and provided a framework for the character of Ender Wiggin.
Overall, Orson Scott Card's "Ender's Game" was shaped by a combination of personal experiences, literary and cultural influences, and his own creative vision. These factors came together to create a complex and thought-provoking novel that continues to resonate with readers today.