Happy Wednesday! How is your week going? I’m excited to say that it was starting to feel like spring here, which makes me so happy. Now it’s back to rain again, but that’s ok. More time inside means more opportunities to read. Silver linings and all that.
Every week I like to talk about a literary term that might be useful to writers, readers, or anyone who works around the book community. There are a lot of terms that might sound unfamiliar, and of course, the language is evolving all the time with new innovations etc. So…without further chatter from me, let’s get into our term of the week.
Steampunk!
For this week’s literary term of the week, we’re delving into the intricate and imaginative realm of steampunk literature. Steampunk is fun, creating worlds where Victorian aesthetics, futuristic technology, and alternative history collide in a genre that’s as captivating as it is unique.
So, what exactly is steampunk? At its core, steampunk is a subgenre of science fiction that imagines an alternative history where steam power is still widely used, typically set in the 19th century Victorian era or the American Wild West. But what sets steampunk apart is its fusion of elements from both the past and the future, resulting in a fantastical world filled with airships, automatons, and eccentric inventors.
One classic example of steampunk literature is “The Difference Engine” by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling. Set in an alternate Victorian England where Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine was successfully built, the novel explores a society where steam-powered computers have revolutionized the world, leading to political intrigue and social upheaval.
Another noteworthy example is “Perdido Street Station” by China Miéville. Set in the sprawling city of New Crobuzon, the novel follows an eccentric scientist named Isaac Dan der Grimnebulin as he navigates a world teeming with bizarre creatures, magical technology, and industrial revolution. Miéville’s richly detailed world-building and intricate plot make “Perdido Street Station” a standout in the steampunk genre.
But why has steampunk captured the imaginations of readers and authors alike? Perhaps it’s the allure of a bygone era infused with the excitement of scientific discovery and technological innovation. Or maybe it’s the opportunity to explore themes of progress, society, and the consequences of unchecked ambition in a setting that’s both familiar and fantastical.
So, now that we’ve talked about what steampunk is, have you explored the world of steampunk literature? What draws you to this captivating genre? Are there any steampunk novels or authors that you would recommend? Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below, I would love to hear them!
Wishing you a fantastic week filled with books and adventure,
-Colorful Swans Press
Colorful Swans Press 