"One of the essential functions of sceince fiction, I think, is precisely this kind of question-asking: reversals of a habitual way of thinking, metaphors for what our language has no words for as yet, experiments in imagination." Ursula K. LeGuin

Language of The Night is a compilation of essays on fantasy and sceince fiction by Ursula K. LeGuin.  There are several essays that discuss the nature writing sceince fiction and gender. This particular essay stuck out to me: Is Gender Necessary? (1976) Redux (1988). I have attached a pdf to this post for viewing. If you have trouble accessing it, please let me know and I can do my best to get a hard-copy.

For the first class please come prepared to discuss this essay, the introduction to The Left Hand of Darkness, and your throughts and ideas on science fiction, fantasy, gender, and sexulaity.

Reminder that class will be held Friday February First at 6pm at Sycamore House (3111 Palmyra St.)

Class will be held at Sycamore House (3111 Palmyra) Fridays at 6pm.


And if you would like to contribute or have any questions feel free to contact me abruser@uno.edu


Hope to see you there!

Thought-Experiements

What is science fiction?

Before jumping right in, let's think about what science fiction means to us. How do we relate to science fiction? What can science fiction tell us about ourselves? What does science fiction tell us about our own society's cultural values, norms, and concerns?

In her introduction to The Left Hand Of Darkness, Ursula LeGuin beautifully illustrates the relationships among writer, reader, and society. In addition, LeGuin elaborates on the meaning on science fiction.

Fridays in February

(class time not decided, any suggestions?)

In this class we will explore and expand upon concepts of gender and feminism as seen through a literary lens. We will focus on (but are not limited to) science fiction, speculative fiction, magical realism, and fantasy. Some authors include Karen Joy Fowler, Nalo Hopkinson, Ruth Nestvold, Ursula LeGuin, James Tiptree Jr, and Octavia Butler. We will read and discuss one short(ish) story per week. Although the class is informal, I would strongly recommend reading before each class. (If anyone has trouble accessing the blog or would prefer a hard-copy, please contact me for arrangements).

Upholding the traditions of so many wonderful authors and editors of the James Tipree Jr. Award, home made cookies will be provided each class. 

Looking forward to it!