Writing Science Fiction and Fantasy Part 1

What are the important things to consider when beginning to write in Science Fiction and Fantasy?

This course will introduce students to the work of some of the most influential SF and fantasy writers to date.

You will study the critical debates surrounding the genre and consider the effectiveness of the set texts as forms of social/political criticism. Through the exploration of short stories, novels and film adaptations, you will discover what makes sci-fi and fantasy different from other genres.

We will examine the variety of ways in which sci-fi and fantasy literature explores contemporary ideas of who we are, how we engage in community, and how we respond to otherness.

You will be given set writing exercises designed to encourage you to explore these questions. You will have the option of responding to these questions using both critical and creative writing methodologies.

The course will explore the makings of character, worldbuilding and plot typically found in the genre. You will learn to hone your worldbuilding skills and avoid ‘info dumps’.

The authors discussed will include William Gibson, Susanna Clarke, Ray Bradbury, Philip K. Dick and Octavia Butler.

Learning and teaching

This course will be taught online. There will be two-hour meetings once a week (20 contact hours in all) which will include discussions, exercises, craft lectures, and workshops.

We will explore the following key issues and themes:

• The difference between sci-fi and fantasy.
• How to avoid boring exposition and infodumps.
• How to combine world building with characters and plot.
• How to reveal world details dramatically through actions and reactions.
• Identity, time, alterity, consciousness, posthumanism, the alien, counter-factual history, virtual reality, and simulation.

Coursework and assessment

You will have the choice between:

Creative Portfolio: 100% - The portfolio may consist of several separate creative pieces or one piece of extended writing, showcasing the best work produced on the module. Students must include a short reflective commentary. 1700 words creative work. 300 words reflective commentary. Due at the end of the module.

OR

Essay: 100% - Students may choose to write an essay answering one of the set questions given by the tutor. Students will also have the option of designing their own question to be agreed with the tutor in week 8. 2000 words. Due at the end of the module.

Reading suggestions

• Ray Bradbury (2008) The Martian Chronicles
• Octavia Butler(2005) Bloodchild and Other Stories
• Susanna Clarke (2004) Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell (Book & TV show)
• William Gibson (1984) Neuromancer
• Ursula K. Le Guin (1972) The Word for World is Forest

Library and computing facilities

As a student on this course you are entitled to join and use the University’s library and computing facilities. Find out more about using these facilities.

Accessibility

Our aim is access for all. We aim to provide a confidential advice and support service for any student with a long term medical condition, disability or specific learning difficulty. We are able to offer one-to-one advice about disability, pre-enrolment visits, liaison with tutors and co-ordinating lecturers, material in alternative formats, arrangements for accessible courses, assessment arrangements, loan equipment and dyslexia screening.