Sunday, September 14, 2014

The Basics Regarding Sci Fi Novels

By Kerri Stout


Science fiction is the name of a genre of writing. It involves stories that feature imaginative, not real, content. Typically this involves futuristic science and settings, as well as technology, space, time and light travel, and even extraterrestrials. Sci fi novels are often called literature of ideas, in that they explore potential consequences of innovations. This genre is often used by writers interested in covering literary themes, such as morality, social structure, identity, politics and desire.

No one definition can be used to describe this style of writing. It is known to encompass so many different sub-genres and themes. This style of literature usually includes rational writing about fantasy futures that are actually quite possible realities.

The genre itself is similar to fantasy. Still, it is different because its imaginary components are typically based on science. This is not true of all elements in science fiction stories, as some are based purely on imagination and hold no place in the sciences.

Typically these novels are set during a time in the future. They might also have a historical setting that contradicts what readers know to be true based on real historical facts and records. Many of these also include settings in outer space, outside worlds or subterranean Earth. A variety of characters may be found in these stories, including mutants, aliens, humanoid robots, androids and more.

The people in the novels might utilize teleportation devices, computers, ray guns and other types of technology that readers will be familiar with. Some scientific principles that are contradictory or new may be brought up in these books. Faster-than-light travel and communication, as well as wormholes are just a few examples. These stories often include new or different types of social and political systems.

Many characters in these stories have paranormal abilities. They might be able to teleport or control minds or dabble in telekinesis or telepathy. Often times the settings involve other dimensions or universes, as well as the travel between these. There are many different components characteristic of sci fi literature, which has been around for centuries.

There are a lot of different categories, sub-genres and related genres for sci fi. This type of literature is often categorized as either hard SF or soft SF. Hard refers to close attention to accuracy of details as they related to the natural sciences. It might also be used to describe that which closely depicts the worlds that advanced technology could create. In fact, there have been accurate predictions in this sub-genre. Soft SF describes works with more focus on the social sciences, for instance: anthropology, sociology, political science, psychology and economics.

Time travel, apocalyptic, social science fiction, alternative history, post-apocalyptic, superhuman and military SF are several examples of sub-genres associated with this kind of writing. There are also many genres that are similar, such as horror fiction, mystery, fantasy, science fantasy and ci-fi. Many around the globe are fans of this style of literature and there are many authors who publish works within the genre.




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