It's NOT self-promo, It's a Discussion!

[Jeffery]

I couldn't think of a better group of people to weigh in on a topic that has been sticking at me for a while. So, I point you to a guest post I just did for another author, which I've now posted on my own blog. I really would like some feedback on this. It is a growing genre, even though it is an old one and I've shared a few thoughts that I think are pertinent. We talk about books that fit the genre here sometimes, so here it goes.

http://theephemera.com/the-dystopian-...

Thanks, all.

Jeff

[Sharon]

On my blog, I asked the question, "Where among us is the Steinbeck who will write the story of this time." There are large gaps in the shelves of the modern library, left by the extreme mass market commercialization of the last thirty years. My books fit in the one of science fiction which addresses social issues. You've brought up another which does.

[Jeffery]

Sharon wrote: "On my blog, I asked the question, "Where among us is the Steinbeck who will write the story of this time." There are large gaps in the shelves of the modern library, left by the extreme mass marke..."

It is funny to me how literary critics often look down on science fiction, dystopian and the like. Some of the most impactful and provocative social commentaries come from these genres.

[Martin]

I loved the blog post and have tweeted the link and put it on my own blog.

Jeffery you are correct--there are definitely assumptions made about sci fi and fantasy, that they fit some mold and don't try to provide social commentary.

My stuff flirts with dystopian themes, but that's about it. I think Fantasy/Sci-Fi needs more of this, to reach those audiences who may be set into their own unique worlds.

[Jeffery]

Martin wrote: "I loved the blog post and have tweeted the link and put it on my own blog.

Jeffery you are correct--there are definitely assumptions made about sci fi and fantasy, that they fit some mold and do..."

Wow. Thanks so much for posting the blog, Martin. I really enjoy this discussion and I plan to continue writing about it. There is another blogger who offered to have me write something similar for his blog.

Martin - if you, or any other authors for that matter, want to write something on this or a related topic, I'd be glad to post it on my blog and feature you. It would be great to have others weigh in.

Jeff

[Martin]

That would be terrific to write something; can you give me about a week?

[Sharon]

Martin wrote: "I loved the blog post and have tweeted the link and put it on my own blog.

Jeffery you are correct--there are definitely assumptions made about sci fi and fantasy, that they fit some mold and do..."

Now, why would a corporation publish socially aware and culturally critical science fiction? They didn't even publish news programs that were for the last quarter-century. It does not make business sense.

[Jeffery]

Martin wrote: "That would be terrific to write something; can you give me about a week?"

Absolutely! Send me a message and we can exchange info.

Jeff