Definition of LGBTQ Science Fiction
Science Fiction began in the 1930’s and was concerned mainly with hard sciences and outer space. Science Fiction back then was thought to be a more “male genre”. However, times have changed since the 1930’s and no longer is science a one gender field, so no longer is Science Fiction a one gender genre.
Today Science Fiction is definable by the diversity that is created by its authors as well as the changes in science, technology, and earthy societies evolutions. Therefore, the genre of Science Fiction has evolved as humanity and scientific discoveries have evolved.
Characteristics of LGBTQ Science Fiction
Science Fiction is the genre characterized by science, outer space and mechanical worlds but it is also one of the most acquiescent genres. This is not to say that the genre is soft, but rather that the flexibility of the genre allows for many attributes to be add to it. Science Fiction is a Cyborg genre. Today the genre can focus on soft sciences, fantasy, romance, adventure and just about any other genre’s attributes. By adding a LGBTQ focus to this Cyborg genre, authors create a platform of external and internal perspectives that could include scientific, philosophical, psychological, and social sciences – to launch worlds of endless possibilities.
Appeal of LGBTQ Science Fiction
> Pace
- The pace of Science Fiction depends on the book. More philosophical and psychological storylines may move at a slower pace the action external storylines.
> Characteristics
- Although the characters of LGBTQ Science Fiction are usually developed and the readers can relate to them, science and setting take precedence over the characters.
> Storyline
- The LGBTQ focus of a Science Fiction storyline takes the concept of “what if” to a whole new level. For instance “what if” child birth did not require either the male or female reproductive system. Or “what if” heterosexuality was considered the odd ‘sexual preference’ in a specific outer galaxy world. These are the storylines of LGBTQ Science Fiction.
- “Otherness” is usually a strong element in Science Fiction and this is especially true for LBGTQ Science Fiction.
- Beyond science and technology, sexuality, gender and reproduction are strong elements in LGBTQ Science Fiction.
- Authors of LGBTQ Science Fiction spend a lot of time developing the worlds the characters live in therefore many authors develop their stories through series.
> Frame
- LGBTQ Science Fiction stories are typically framed in space, the future, or some kind of alternative reality.
- The tone of LGBTQ Science Fiction can be techie but also will involve moral and social perspectives of this world’s ideas of taboos.
Sub Genres & Key Authors
UFO’s and Alien Worlds- Classical Science Fiction where traditional limitations are explored and challenged.
- Nicola Griffith
- Ursula K. LeGuin
- Stephen Leigh
Artificial Intelligence & Computer Science- Computers or machines dominate the storyline.
- Felice Picano
- Melissa Scott
- Jeannette Winterson
Genetically Modified Humans- Changes in human abilities through science
- Greg Egan
- Anne Harris
- Nancy Kress
Time Travel- Either back in history or into a parallel universe.
- Stephen Dedman
- David Gerrold
- Robert Sawyer
Utopia- perfect societies that include thought-provoking options for readers.
- Suzy McKee Charnas
- Katherine Forrest (Daughters Novels)
- Maureen McHugh
Reader’s Advisory Challenges
The Science Fiction genre has a broad scope with varies sub- genres that can all create a challenge for Reader’s Advisory Librarians. Discussing which sub genre is most appealing to the patron and finding out which books have already been read and enjoyed is the best way to guide patrons to new titles.
Science Fiction Appeal Summaries in this Blog:
