Science, Magic and Speculative Fiction

Description

Are you daunted by writing the technical elements of your science fiction novel? Do you have problems avoiding 'info-dumps' when demonstrating that you have done your research?

Join Professor David Powers and explore how we can bring science to fiction.

Speculative fiction is an ever-evolving term in literature and encompasses a spectrum from hard science fiction to high fantasy. In this workshop, we will explore social structures, tropes, technology and magic systems from established science fiction series, while also learning how to weave in compelling and plausible characters in unfamiliar terrain. 

Whether you have little technical knowledge or struggle with captivating worldbuilding, this workshop is designed for all kinds of authors. 

What you will learn

• How to write as an authentic scientist - understanding their goals, motivations and conflict.
• How to research and fact-check the science and engineering, and avoiding spurious cliches and tropes.
• How to engineer your way out of problems - primary and secondary, character and chapter arcs.
• World building as character building - characters and science both need developmental arcs.
• Science as magic + magic as science - the balance between mystique and plausibility.
• AI as character and researcher - using search and AI tools ethically to explore the science and the character.

Professor David Powers

E/Prof. David M W Powers is a much-awarded interdisciplinary researcher and teacher, author, and editor. He has hundreds of scientific publications (including three books through Springer Nature, for whom he edits a book series on Cognitive Science and Technology). As Marti Ward, he has published several short stories and four award-winning Hard Science Fiction novels, is working on several sequels, and has coauthored yet others! Both his Paradisi Lost Mission stories and his Quantum Talents series are based in an "appearance of magic universe" where he has fun writing in a scientific way about things we think of as magic, and in a magical way about things we think of as science.

FAQs

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by, near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid (metered) street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

There is on-street disabled parking available on the nearby roads. View more information and maps of Adelaide City Council's Disability parking for permit holders.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays.  The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include quiet study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the State Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 12 to 4pm.

Find out more about the cafe and resident organisations at the State Library.