Classics of Science Fiction
(Hosted by John Hertz)
We'll discuss three Classics of Science Fiction at this year's Loscon, one discussion each. Come to as many as you like. You'll be welcome to join in.
Our operating definition is, "A classic is a work that survives its own time. After the currents which might have sustained it have changed, it remains, and is seen to be worthwhile for itself." If you have a better definition, bring it.
Each of the three is famous in a different way. Each may be more interesting now than when first published. Have you read them? Have you re-read them?
Isaac Asimov, Foundation (1951)
Twenty thousand years in the future, we've had a Galactic Empire; now it's collapsing. One man realizes he can't stop it but plans for what comes next. Watch the author use dialogue to paint character.
Madeleine L'Engle, A Wrinkle in Time (1962)
As it turns out, not fantasy - sufficiently advanced technology can be indistinguishable from magic. Is this a children's book? The Newbery Medal committee thought so; is that the whole truth?
H.G. Wells, The Invisible Man (1897)
The best known outside our field. Why aren't we shown the fire until Chapter 21? Why is the note to Dr. Kemp so eloquent? Remember to look up any 19th Century (or other) things you may need to.