6. The field of science fiction

Abstract

Science fiction has defied definition as it constantly reinvents itself and progressively redefines itself in the literary market place. The urge to apply a simple classification of science fiction is shown in ‘The fields of science fiction’ to be simply ignorant of the complexities involved. The fluidity of the genre, the role that science fiction magazines have played in its development and the literary criticism of science fiction are each examined. So too is the close interaction between science fiction writing and film. New voices are also adding their take on the place of science fiction in literature and the media.