The ingredients of universe-building are morality, science, politics, art, and religion. The interplay of these creates a moral and political universe. Each ingredient packs its own punch, and getting the ratios right means you won’t have an overcooked souffle of a universe.
When you mix morals, ethics, and emotional fears, you get an array of Batman characters. Which match to what world viewpoints?
Tag: panels
I attend cons — sf and fantasy conventions — a couple times a year. Of late, I’ve been attending more than a few panels on writing, editing, and publishing. With professional writers, editors, Editors, and agents as the panelists. Here is where you can find my notes!
Post-Con Report: RavenCon 2023
I’m home after a weekend at RavenCon in Richmond Virginia. Final tally: 7 times a panelist, attended 5 panels, 1 launch party, and the opening ceremonies. And more!
6 Steps To Prep As A Convention Panelist
Are you interested in becoming a panelist?
Are you an experienced panelist? Tell me about your favorite panel — and any prep steps you take that I skipped!
Here’s what I do to get ready.
Positive Speculative Fiction!
Many people are craving stories right now with gentle plots and hopeful themes to contrast the recent dystopic trends in publishing, media, and real-life dramas. So, what makes for positive science fiction and fantasy and what are some favorite examples of the brighter side of speculative fiction.
Problematic Publishing: Red Flags To Watch Out For
Most publishers are in it for the love of books. Yes, even the acquiring editors, the marketing team, and the contract specialists.
But, that doesn’t mean there aren’t some problematic publishing companies out there. Whether you go with traditional publishing or small press, you need to be careful.
Family Structures in Science Fiction and Fantasy (A Balticon 56 Panel)
From werewolf clans to alien hives, this panel will discuss the most imaginative and thought-provoking examples of family structures in genre works.
So many book recommendations!
p.s. This is also my 700th post! WHOA!
P.s.s. It’s also Catticus’s gotcha anniversary, so great week all around.
RavenCon 2022
What Are Panelists? Conventions have speakers. Fan-run conventions typically have a small number of guests of honor whose ways are … More
Balancing Story and Scientific Authenticity (A DisCon III Panel)
How getting the science right improves a story, types of science you can use, and aiming your story for the right audience.
The Nuts and Bolts of Chapters (A DisCon III Panel)
In December of 2021, I had the opportunity to attend DisConIII. Here are my other DisCon posts. The panelists for … More