Science-Fiction versus Fantasy

Genres. What I have discovered on my trek to getting published is that the "industry" likes to categorize things. Makes sense. We all categorize. But what leaves me somewhat confused is the blurred edge between many of the literary genres. For instance, Fantasy and Science-Fiction.

On the surface the distinction seems simple. You've got wizards, dragons, fairies? You're Fantasy.

Got robots, spaceships, Jedi? You're Science-Fiction.

I once heard the distinction stated as "science-fiction is what is probable and fantasy is improbable."

Wait. What? One is real and one is not? Not all science-fiction that I've read (or seen) is in any way probable. Are you telling me the Force is probable? No. That's why some consider Star Wars a Fantasy. But it has robots! And spaceships! So what, exactly, is the true definition? Is all Science-Fiction hard Science-Fiction? Relying on scientific fact and/or scientific probability? Or is there some deeper reasoning?

I ask because my YA novel is currently being categorized as Science-Fiction. But there's not really any science. Sure, it's in space. But it's a fun adventure in space and I didn't spend 5 years researching the physics of space travel. And I'm positive it's not in any way probable. So what is it...Fantasy? Since there's no vampires, witches, magic or swordplay then I bet the "industry" would balk at that title. Space Opera? Not widely accepted, I think. And so far, to stand out you need to fit in a box.

But what if we started having robots in the Middle Ages alongside wizards, and dragons in the future on spaceships? Would heads explode?

(Sigh). I shall have to do more research. Let the genre wars begin.

George Lucas and Walt Disney Tie the Knot

My two absolute favorite visionaries of all time are now one! Well, not really. But figuratively. I know, I'm a bit behind the boat on voicing my two cents here. (Hey - I was neck-deep in book revisions when the news exploded). But I have to comment - I just have to. STAR WARS is my childhood, my teen-hood, my adulthood. It has shaped everything I do creatively. So why not chime in? (Besides, I'm sure my 6 followers really want to know ;)

First - I am actually thrilled Lucas chose to hand over the reins to Disney. I LOVE DISNEY. No Mouse House hater here. I don't care what you say about their commercial sell-outness or their behind-the-scenes Death Star-style working conditions. The company has made classic fairy tales a permanent part of my psychosis. So who better to take on the movies we WISH Lucas had made instead of the prequels. Right?

Speaking of the dreaded New Trilogy...Now that most fans are angry at Lucas, I think it is wise that he is publicly stating he is keeping a very distant role in the new films. According to him, “[If the filmmakers ask],‘Who’s this guy?’ I can tell them. I mean, they have a hundred encyclopedias and things, but I actually know a lot. I can say, ‘This is this and this is that.’ Basically I’m not — I don’t really have much to do.”

Yeah, we'll see if that holds. Hiring Michael Arndt (Toy Story 3) was a big positive sign. In fact, I will now be stalking him on Twitter to see if he lets slip any 140-character clues about the script (which I doubt). So fingers crossed that my favorite, favorite story of all time (well, a close tie with Pride & Prejudice) will get the star treatment it deserves. And maybe, just maybe, I can be a part of it. Here's wishing!

The QUEEN is back! 

Yes! I see evil resurfacing in Regina's future, and I couldn't be more happy. Don't judge, but evil characters make me all giddy inside. Maybe because they get to live selfishly and I haven't been able to live that way since the little stick revealed a plus sign. Regardless, Regina is at her best when she does her worst, and although I can appreciate a character who wants to change and love like the other goodies, we need our baddie!

But apparently, last night's ONCE was a "winter finale" as in, they didn't want to shoot any more shows to take us to the holidays. So now I've got to wait a month to see the Mother/Daughter reunion we've all been waiting for.

Last thought - what's up with Captain Hook? I've been somewhat ambivalent about him this season. Is he good? Is he bad? Is he enjoyable to watch? This guy doesn't have...swagger. Captain Hook, at least the one Disney introduced us to, is as flamboyant as he is dastardly. He's got flair. This guy, so far, is lacking some flair. I won't make a judgment yet, but so far I'm not feeling the love for the Hook.

Guess I'll have to find some other topics to chat about now that my show is on a winter break. Hmm...Time to hit Red Box for some inspiration.