The key features of dying earth science fiction include the portrayal of a world on the brink of destruction. There's often a feeling of hopelessness that pervades the stories. The ecosystems are collapsing, and this can lead to some very strange and grotesque forms of life evolving. Authors in this genre may also explore themes of human hubris, as it's often humanity's actions that have led to the earth's sorry state. Additionally, the search for a way to either save the earth or find a new habitable place is a common thread.
One key feature is the exploration of a desolate and dying planet. It often shows the extreme environmental changes, like a scorched earth or a world flooded by rising seas. Another is the struggle for survival among the remaining humans or sentient beings. They have to deal with scarce resources and often face new, dangerous forms of life that have emerged in the harsh conditions.
One possible consequence is the loss of heat and light. Earth would become extremely cold and dark. All plants would die without sunlight for photosynthesis, leading to the collapse of the food chain. Also, the orbits of planets might be disrupted as the sun's gravitational pull weakens during its dying process.
Gene Wolfe has also written works that can be considered part of dying earth science fiction. His complex and often allegorical stories, such as those in 'The Book of the New Sun', while not strictly about a dying earth in a traditional sense, have elements of a world in decline and transformation that are characteristic of the genre.
One key feature is futuristic settings. It often takes place in times far ahead, like in a world with advanced technology such as flying cars or interstellar travel. Another is scientific concepts. It may involve things like time travel, cloning, or artificial intelligence. And imaginative worlds are also a key feature, with unique ecosystems, alien species, and strange civilizations.
Well, it typically features complex problem - solving by intelligent beings. In many intelligent sci - fi works, the characters, whether human or non - human, use their intelligence to overcome challenges. And often, there is a focus on the evolution of intelligence, be it biological evolution leading to super - intelligent humans or the development of AI over time.
The key features include social harmony. There is little to no conflict between different groups in eutopian science fiction. Everyone has equal opportunities, whether it's in education or career. Also, the built environment is usually well - planned. Cities are clean, efficient, and beautiful, with architecture that combines functionality and aesthetics. For instance, transportation systems are seamless and non - polluting.
One key feature is the focus on human values. In humanism science fiction, stories often explore how humans uphold or struggle with values like compassion, justice, and freedom in a science - fictional setting. For example, in many such works, characters might face moral dilemmas regarding new technologies or alien encounters, and their decisions are guided by human - centered values.
Another feature is the use of symbols to create a sense of mystery. Alien creatures, for instance, can be symbols of the 'other'. They are not fully understood, and their existence challenges our understanding of life, making the story more engaging and thought - provoking.
In portal science fiction, the concept of travel is crucial. Portals allow for instantaneous or at least very rapid travel between places that would otherwise be unreachable. For example, in some stories, a portal on Earth might lead to a far - off planet in a different galaxy. This enables the exploration of new worlds without the need for long - distance space travel. Moreover, portal science fiction can play with the idea of time differences between the two sides of the portal, adding another layer of complexity to the plot.
The key features include the portrayal of sudden and significant changes. It often shows how things can transform in a short time, like a new species emerging overnight in a fictional world. Also, it usually has a strong element of discovery. Characters in emergence science fiction are often on a journey to understand these emerging elements, whether it's a new scientific principle or a strange new society that has emerged from chaos.
One key feature is often its unique world - building. Avalon in science fiction might have distinct ecosystems, like strange alien flora and fauna. Another is the characters. They could be intrepid explorers or scientists trying to unlock the secrets of Avalon. Also, advanced technology is common, such as futuristic transportation or communication devices specific to the Avalon setting.