Science Fiction

by Megan King
3rd March 2013

What does everyone think of the genre? Do you enjoy reading it? What about writing it? Or even watching it? Any tips on how to write Sci-Fi?

Replies

What is Science Fiction?

It certainly lasts from HG Wells to the present (and future).

Should it include Mary Shelley's Frankenstein?

There is such a vast range.

As with any genre there is everything from superb to abysmal. Some of the cult books and series fall into the latter category in my experience.

One thing that happens with Sci-fi is that it usually dates very quickly. It can, nevertheless, continue to have historical interest. I think that this particularly applies to a lot of John Wyndham's writing.

I enjoy reading it - sometimes for the cringe value.

Reading bad literature is an entertainment that I have only recently discovered since I started my own writing efforts - which could be significant... It came about from a comment to a colleague that I never know how good or bad my own work is. His response was that I shouldn't worry - "look at all the rubbish that does get published".

Therefore one answer to the question "what about writing it?" would be - why not? One can always identify a format and regurgitate it.

Tips on writing Sci-Fi?

None.

Except have a story to write. If it happens to be Sci-fi - that's fine... If it doesn't - that is also fine. It's the story that matters not the genre.

David

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David
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David Foster
03/03/2013

I don't read science fiction - hated 'Dune' and never went back - though for some strange reason I'm quite happy watching a film.

Laziness, again ;)

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Jonathan
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Jonathan Hopkins
03/03/2013

Laura - Thanks for the feedback and your time answering the question! :)

Andrew - Just the person I need then, do you think Sci-fi should be written in 1st Person or 3rd? Yeah, I agree with you though, thanks! The audience need at least something familiar to latch onto and keep them grounded. Did you ever watch the TV series Lost? Thanks. :)

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Megan
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Megan King
03/03/2013