How do literary science fiction novels differ from regular science fiction?

Science fiction humor novels often use humor to approach the science - fictional concepts. Regular ones might be more serious about world - building and scientific ideas. For example, a regular SF novel might focus on the details of a spaceship's technology, while a humor SF novel could make a joke about the spaceship being held together with duct tape.

Dark science fiction novels often have a more pessimistic view of the future. For example, in regular science fiction, the future might be full of technological wonders that improve humanity. But in dark science fiction like 'The Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood, it shows a future where women are oppressed in a totalitarian regime. Dark science fiction also tends to explore the darker side of human nature more deeply, like in 'Lord of the Flies' which has elements of this genre. It shows how quickly humans can descend into savagery.

Christian science fiction novels often have a spiritual or religious underpinning. For example, they might deal with concepts like the battle between good and evil in a spiritual sense, which regular science fiction may not focus on as much.

The main difference is that metaphysical science fiction novels tend to explore the non - physical and philosophical aspects of existence. They might question the very fabric of reality, consciousness, and the relationship between the self and the universe. Regular science fiction novels usually deal with more tangible things like the development of new technologies or the exploration of outer space. For example, 'Neuromancer' is a metaphysical science fiction as it looks at how technology affects our perception of self, while a regular science fiction like 'Star Trek' often focuses on adventures in space and the interaction with different alien species, with less focus on these deeper metaphysical ideas.

Psychedelic science fiction books often focus more on the inner mental states of characters and how they perceive reality. Regular science fiction may be more about technological advancements or exploring new worlds in a more straightforward way. For example, in psychedelic science fiction, the narrative might jump between different states of consciousness, while regular science fiction might be more linear in its storytelling.

The tone and atmosphere can also be different. Erotic science - fiction may create a more sensual or passionate mood, while regular science - fiction might aim for a more cerebral or action - oriented feel. For instance, an erotic science - fiction might describe the allure of an alien species in a sexual way, whereas a regular one would be more interested in their technological capabilities. Additionally, the target audience can vary. Erotic science - fiction may appeal to those interested in exploring sexual themes within a speculative context, while regular science - fiction has a broader general audience interested in the genre's typical themes.

Smutty science fiction books often include more sexual or adult - themed content. Regular science - fiction books focus more on scientific concepts, technological advancements, and space exploration. For example, a typical science - fiction book might be about colonizing Mars, while a smutty one could be about a sexual relationship on a spaceship.

Paranormal science fiction books often include elements that are beyond the normal understanding of science, like psychic powers, ghosts, or other supernatural phenomena. Regular science fiction usually focuses more on scientific concepts such as space travel, advanced technology, and alien life based on scientific speculation. For example, a regular science - fiction book might be about colonizing Mars using advanced rockets, while a paranormal science - fiction book set on Mars could involve ancient Martian spirits.

The tone is a major differentiator. Regular science fiction can have a wide range of tones from optimistic to somber. Horror science - fiction, on the other hand, is predominantly dark and menacing. It aims to make the audience feel uneasy, whether it's through the desolate landscapes of a post - apocalyptic world filled with scientific disasters or the presence of otherworldly entities that defy scientific understanding in a terrifying way.

Festival science fiction often focuses more on the social and cultural aspects that occur during festivals within a science - fictional setting. Regular science fiction may be more about broader concepts like space travel or future technology in general.