The Edward E. Smith Memorial Award for Imaginative Fiction, or Skylark, annually recognizes someone for lifetime contributions to science fiction, "both through work in the field and by exemplifying the personal qualities which made the late 'Doc' Smith well-loved by those who knew him".[1] It is presented by the New England Science Fiction Association at its annual convention, Boskone, to someone chosen by a vote of NESFA members. The trophy is a large lens mounted on a simple plinth.[1]
The award was inaugurated in 1966, the year after Smith's death. Fifty-six people have been honored in 54 years to 2020. Hal Clement received the award twice, in 1969 and 1997.[1]