〈Novel Structure, Narration, Rhetoric, and Psychological Analysis〉–– Introduction to International Novel Works and Theoretical Analysis (Volume I) 7

Part Two, Chapter Three

On the Creation of Science Fiction

I. Definition of Science Fiction

Science fiction is a literary genre that takes science—either real or speculative—as its core subject matter, exploring themes related to humanity, technology, the future, and the universe. Its definition commonly includes key concepts such as imagination, the future, technology, humanity, and transformation, satisfying humanity’s curiosity and imaginative desire for the unknown.

II. Structural Types of Science Fiction Narratives

Science fiction narratives typically exhibit distinctive structural characteristics. They often center on world-building, combined with plot development, interactions between humanity and technology, and explorations of the future, the cosmos, and ethical dilemmas. The following are several major structural types in science fiction storytelling:

1. Adventure and Exploration Type

Characteristics:

• The protagonist enters an unknown realm (outer space, time, alien worlds, or the future).
• The plot focuses on exploration or the resolution of mysterious phenomena.
• Emphasis is placed on the journey itself, with frequent shifts in setting.

Examples:

• Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea: Exploration of the mysterious undersea world.
• The Time Machine: Exploration of transformations across past and future worlds.

Narrative Framework:

1. Entry into a new world (departure).
2. Confrontation with challenges and the unknown (plot progression).
3. Revelation of truth or return to the original world (climax and conclusion).

2. Social and Futuristic Type

Characteristics:

• Construction of a future or alternative society reflecting real-world issues.
• Focus on conflicts involving politics, economics, ethics, and technology.
• Often presented in dystopian or utopian forms.

Examples:

• Nineteen Eighty-Four: Depicts a society under totalitarian surveillance.
• Brave New World: Explores technological dominance and the erosion of humanity.

Narrative Framework:

1. Presentation of the world system (exposition).
2. Escalation of conflict between protagonist and society.
3. Collapse of the system or revelation of its true nature (ending).

3. High-Conflict Type (Interstellar or Civilizational Confrontation)

Characteristics:

• Focus on racial or civilizational conflict and warfare.
• Exploration of encounters, confrontations, or cooperation between humans and extraterrestrial intelligences.
• Emphasis on moral dilemmas and survival conflicts between opposing sides.

Examples:

• The War of the Worlds: Humanity’s resistance against Martian invasion.
• Ender’s Game: Moral choices within interspecies warfare.

Narrative Framework:

1. Emergence of crisis (hostility).
2. War and sacrifice (conflict and breakthrough).
3. Establishment of a new equilibrium (reconciliation or reconstruction).

4. Soul and Identity Type (Philosophical Exploration)

Characteristics:

• Exploration of the boundaries of human identity and the soul amid technological advancement.
• Frequent involvement of artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, or virtual reality.
• Strong emphasis on internal conflict and narrative reversals.

Examples:

• Blade Runner (Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?): The soul and humanity of artificial beings.
• Neuromancer: The loss of self within virtual reality.

Narrative Framework:

1. Emergence of the problem (technological challenge).
2. Exploration and struggle (internal and external conflict).
3. Self-awareness or epiphany (open or reversed ending).

5. Cataclysmic Crisis Type (Apocalypse and Reconstruction)

Characteristics:

• Exploration of the future after global or cosmic catastrophe.
• Depiction of human survival struggles and value reassessment.
• World-building often includes the causes of disaster (natural, technological, or man-made).

Examples:

• Dune: Ecological crisis intertwined with religious and political struggle.
• I Am Legend: Human adaptation to a post-pandemic order.

Narrative Framework:

1. Establishment of disaster background (causal events).
2. Protagonist’s survival and transformation.
3. Construction of a new world (rebuilding and hope).

General Observations: Shared Elements of Science Fiction

1. World-Building: Every science fiction narrative prioritizes the creation of a credible and immersive world.
2. Escalating Conflict: Progression from technology-induced problems to deeper self-awareness and worldview transformation.
3. Multi-layered Plot Design: Interweaving external events with internal psychological conflict to stimulate reflection.

While science fiction shares structural similarities with general fiction, it places greater emphasis on futurity, uncertainty, and philosophical depth, seamlessly blending reality with imagination.

III. Core Elements of Science Fiction

To ensure scientific plausibility and narrative appeal, science fiction relies on several essential components:

1. World-Building (Setting)

Definition:
The creation of an innovative yet logically coherent world that immerses readers—forming the foundation of science fiction.

Elements:

1. Technological development (e.g., artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, interstellar travel).
2. Social, cultural, and economic systems (e.g., class structures, governance).
3. Environmental characteristics (e.g., alien ecologies, post-disaster Earth).

Examples:

• Dune: The desert ecology of Arrakis, spice economy, and religious system.
• The Time Machine: A future Earth divided between the Morlocks and the Eloi.

2. Scientific Foundation or Hypothesis

Definition:
Scientific concepts or assumptions must maintain internal plausibility to support narrative development and world operation.

Elements:

1. Reasoned extrapolation from real science.
2. Extreme extension of existing technologies.
3. Hypothetical future breakthroughs or catastrophes.

Examples:

• Frankenstein: Victor animates life through electricity.
• The War of the Worlds: Martian invasion rooted in 19th-century astronomical speculation.

3. Conflict and Technological Impact

Definition:
Central conflicts often arise from the influence of technology or external forces on individuals and societies.

Elements:

1. Ethical challenges posed by new technologies.
2. Threats from extraterrestrial civilizations or natural disasters.
3. Human struggle and choice under extreme conditions.

Examples:

• Blade Runner: Moral boundaries between humans and replicants.
• I Am Legend: Survival amid viral catastrophe and mutation.

4. Themes and Allegory

Definition:
Science fiction commonly addresses fundamental human issues through speculative scenarios reflecting real-world concerns.

Elements:

1. Humanity’s relationship with nature (ecology).
2. Ethical consequences of technological progress.
3. Identity and self-exploration (philosophical inquiry).

Examples:

• Brave New World: Critique of technological control and loss of individual freedom.
• Nineteen Eighty-Four: Allegory of surveillance and authoritarianism.

5. Distinctive Characters

Definition:
Even in technology-driven narratives, characters must remain emotionally compelling.

Elements:

1. Capacity for exploration and adaptation.
2. Internal conflict between technology, belief, and humanity.
3. Traits such as intelligence, resilience, and determination.

Examples:

• Paul Atreides (Dune): A youth who survives a desert world to become a messianic figure.
• Rick Deckard (Blade Runner): Torn between duty and questioning the limits of humanity.

6. The Dual Nature of Technology

Definition:
Technology is portrayed as both creative and destructive.

Elements:

1. Hope and progress enabled by innovation.
2. Risks of misuse and unforeseen consequences.

Examples:

• Neuromancer: Cybernetic integration and digital addiction.
• Ender’s Game: Advanced weaponry that destroys innocence.

7. Tension and the Unknown

Definition:
Suspense, adventure, and uncertainty drive narrative momentum.

Elements:

1. Unpredictability of the future.
2. Hidden dangers behind technological advancement.
3. Detailed depiction of exploration and psychological conflict.

Examples:

• The War of the Worlds: Societal collapse following alien invasion.
• The Time Machine: Perilous uncertainty of time travel.

Together, these elements generate the distinctive appeal of science fiction, enabling exploration of humanity’s boundaries with the unknown while providing both intellectual depth and entertainment value.

IV. Ten Representative Works of Science Fiction

1. Frankenstein (Mary Shelley, 1818): Often regarded as the first science fiction novel, addressing the ethical consequences of creating life.
2. Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea (Jules Verne, 1870): A tale of underwater exploration led by Captain Nemo.
3. The Time Machine (H. G. Wells, 1895): Introduces the concept of time travel.
4. The War of the Worlds (H. G. Wells, 1898): Depicts extraterrestrial invasion and human resistance.
5. Brave New World (Aldous Huxley, 1932): Explores technological control and loss of humanity.
6. Nineteen Eighty-Four (George Orwell, 1949): A powerful critique of surveillance and totalitarianism.
7. Dune (Frank Herbert, 1965): Examines power, religion, and ecology on a galactic scale.
8. Blade Runner (Philip K. Dick, 1968; original novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?): Explores artificial intelligence and human identity.
9. Foundation Series (Isaac Asimov, 1951–1993): Depicts a future galactic empire and the science of historical prediction.
10. Neuromancer (William Gibson, 1984): A seminal work of cyberpunk envisioning virtual reality and information technology.

V. Classic Protagonists, Supporting Characters (Allies, Mentors), and Antagonists in Science Fiction

(I) Protagonists, Supporting Characters (Allies, Mentors), and Antagonists

Characters in science fiction are commonly categorized into several major types. Each type plays a crucial role in advancing the plot and articulating thematic concerns. Such character constructions often transcend everyday character design, presenting multidimensional traits and profound symbolic significance.

1. Protagonist

The protagonist is the central figure of the story and the primary driver of narrative development. Protagonists in science fiction typically possess the following characteristics:

1. Explorer or Problem-Solver, endowed with curiosity and creativity.
2. Flawed Hero, who confronts both internal and external challenges and undergoes personal growth.
3. Subject to Tests of Humanity and Ethics, seeking self-definition within technological or supernatural environments.

Classic Examples:

1. Paul Atreides (Dune)
   A young noble who embarks on a journey to the desert planet Arrakis and ultimately becomes a messianic figure. Torn between destiny and inner struggle, Paul embodies a prototypical hero integrating political power, religious belief, and spiritual exploration.
2. Ellie Arroway (Contact)
   A scientist devoted to the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, Ellie represents humanity’s pursuit of knowledge and obsession with the unknown, while negotiating the tension between science and faith.

2. Supporting Characters

A. Allies

Allies assist the protagonist in achieving goals or embody abilities and emotional dimensions that the protagonist alone cannot fulfill. They often serve multiple narrative functions, such as providing knowledge, combat skills, or emotional support.

Examples:

1. Dr. Wellington Yueh (Dune)
   A loyal retainer and physician who ultimately betrays Paul under coercion involving his family, reflecting the complexity and vulnerability of human nature.
2. George and Weasley (Animal Farm)
   Collaborators among the pigs who assume different responsibilities, contrasting idealism with the corruption inherent in power.

B. Mentors

Mentors function as guides or initiators in the protagonist’s growth, often representing wisdom, experience, and strategic insight.

1. The Old Time Traveler (The Time Machine)
   An inventor and time traveler who inspires philosophical reflection on time, symbolizing the illuminating force of scientific inquiry.
2. Gurney Halleck (Dune)
   Paul’s combat instructor and emotional supporter, embodying loyalty and professional integrity.

3. Antagonists

Antagonists typically oppose the protagonist and often symbolize environmental oppression or the abuse of technology. Rather than serving merely as threats, they frequently embody human evil, ambition, or systemic corruption.

Examples:

1. Baron Harkonnen (Dune)
   A tyrannical ruler of Arrakis, symbolizing political corruption and insatiable lust for power.
2. HAL 9000 (2001: A Space Odyssey)
   An anthropomorphized artificial intelligence whose confrontation with the protagonist symbolizes humanity’s fear of—and ignorance toward—technology.
3. O’Brien (Nineteen Eighty-Four)
   A secondary antagonist who gains the protagonist’s trust before betraying him, serving as the darkest embodiment of totalitarian ideology.

4. Multi-Faceted Characters and Moral Gray Zones

Definition:
Characters who are neither wholly evil nor purely virtuous, adding emotional complexity and deeper exploration of human nature.

Examples:

1. Rachael Rosen (Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?)
   An android who assists the protagonist while concealing a fatal narrative twist in her identity, challenging the boundaries of humanity.
2. Bonzo Madrid (Ender’s Game)
   A rival and potential ally at the military academy, simultaneously competing with and empathizing with the protagonist.

Functions of Character Interaction

(II) Interactions Between Protagonists and Supporting Characters

1. Protagonist–Mentor Interaction: Transmission of Knowledge and Philosophy
   Paul and the Bene Gesserit / Mentors (Dune): Awakening to faith and responsibility.
2. Protagonist–Antagonist Confrontation: Clash of Values
   HAL 9000 and Dave Bowman (2001: A Space Odyssey): The dissonance between technology and humanity.
3. Protagonist–Ally Relationships: Formation of Teamwork and Emotional Bonds
   Ellie Arroway and the Astronomical Research Team (Contact): Collective effort driving exploration.

Character design in science fiction must organically integrate world-setting and character conflict in order to intensify narrative tension and deepen thematic resonance.

VI. Narrative Techniques in Science Fiction

Science fiction is renowned for its expansive imagination and intellectual depth, both of which rely heavily on sophisticated narrative strategies. Below is an analysis of classic science fiction narrative techniques with examples.

1. Temporal Leap Narrative

Science fiction frequently employs non-linear temporal structures—such as time jumps, flashbacks, and time loops—to explore the interplay of past, present, and future.

Example: The Time Machine (H. G. Wells)
The protagonist travels into the future to observe the tragic consequences of human evolution, revealing social fragmentation and human fragility. The use of a first-person framing narrator enhances both mystery and plausibility.

Example: The Sandglass Man (Ray Bradbury)
Temporal paradoxes and multiple worlds intersect, using non-linearity to explore the ultimate meaning of life.

2. Multi-Perspective Narrative

Authors employ multiple narrative viewpoints to allow readers to perceive events and worlds from different characters’ perspectives, emphasizing complexity and depth.

Example: Dune (Frank Herbert)
The narrative alternates among Paul, his mother Jessica, and other characters, fully revealing political intrigue, religious belief, and inner psychological conflict.

Example: The Swarm (Frank Schätzing)
A global narrative perspective presents the impact of alien intelligence through diverse characters, highlighting both the power and limitations of collective action.

3. Omniscient Narrator

An all-knowing narrator explains background information, technological settings, and the rules governing the fictional world.

Example: 2001: A Space Odyssey (Arthur C. Clarke)
The omniscient narrator details space programs, the operations of HAL 9000, and the origins of the monolith, enabling deep comprehension of scientific concepts.

Example: Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? (Philip K. Dick)
Multiple explanatory perspectives reveal ethical dilemmas and blurred boundaries between humans and androids in a dystopian society.

4. Setting-Driven Narrative

The narrative is propelled primarily by technological or world-building elements, with character actions revolving around these settings.

Example: Ender’s Game (Orson Scott Card)
Military training and simulated warfare settings drive the protagonist’s growth and provoke ethical reflection on war.

Example: Alien Resurrection (Alan Dean Foster)
Human space colonization and genetic experimentation shape character destinies.

5. Discovery Narrative

The protagonist or observer gradually uncovers the truth, with suspense built through exploration and revelation.

Example: Contact (Carl Sagan)
Ellie Arroway deciphers extraterrestrial signals, gradually revealing both scientific discovery and philosophical inquiry.

Example: Lucifer’s Hammer (Larry Niven & Jerry Pournelle)
Against the backdrop of planetary destruction, the narrative progressively unveils survival strategies and apocalyptic truths.

6. Philosophical Narrative

Science fiction settings function as metaphors for philosophical reflection on humanity and society.

Example: Nineteen Eighty-Four (George Orwell)
Through the contrast between oppression and freedom, the narrative interrogates ideological imprisonment under totalitarianism.

Example: Fahrenheit 451 (Ray Bradbury)
A world of book burning becomes the stage for exploring the value of knowledge and independent thought.

7. Spectacle-Oriented Narrative

Worlds are rendered through vivid sensory and visual descriptions, immersing readers in imaginative landscapes.

Example: Hyperion (Dan Simmons)
Exquisitely detailed depictions of interstellar environments infuse each narrative segment with vitality.

Example: The Three-Body Problem (Liu Cixin)
Descriptions of gravitational phenomena and game-like cosmic rules generate powerful spectacle.

8. Diary or Epistolary Narrative

Stories unfold through diaries, letters, or reports, enhancing realism and personal immediacy.

Example: Frankenstein (Mary Shelley)
A combination of letters and memoirs records the creator’s struggle with guilt and ambition.

Example: The Martian (Andy Weir)
Presented through the protagonist’s log entries, the narrative combines humor with intense survival tension.

Summary

Science fiction narrative techniques are highly diverse, each serving specific thematic or structural needs. By integrating narrative strategies with speculative themes, writers can captivate readers while conveying profound reflections on science, technology, and human nature.

VII. How to Create an Outstanding Science Fiction Novel: A Writing Plan

Writing an exceptional science fiction novel requires a balance between rationality and creativity, using speculative elements to explore real-world issues and deliver an impactful narrative experience. Below is a systematic writing plan.

(I) Pre-Writing Preparation

1. Define the Theme and Core Question

Clarify the central issue you wish to explore: technology, ethics, environment, philosophy, humanity, or social futures.

Examples:

• Can artificial intelligence replace human emotion?
• What future awaits humanity after Earth’s resources are depleted?

Guiding Question:
If Technology X existed, how would human civilization change?

2. Construct the Background Setting

Temporal and Spatial Context:
Determine when (future, parallel universe, ancient advanced civilization) and where (space, Earth, space stations, virtual reality) the story unfolds.

Examples:
Alien colonization eras; Earth’s last city; data centers for “uploaded souls.”

Social Structures:
How do governments, cultures, economies, and technologies shape daily life?

Example:
The Three-Body Problem contrasts Trisolaran and human civilizations.

3. Research Support

Science fiction depends on informed understanding of science, technology, and philosophy:

• Read popular science and academic literature.
• Project plausible technological developments.

Example:
Ender’s Game offers an in-depth portrayal of virtual training simulations.

(II) Core Creative Concepts

1. Design One Breakthrough Idea

The speculative premise or technology serves as the story’s backbone.

Examples:

• Alien communication (Contact)
• Time travel paradox (The Time Machine)
• Virtual reality society (The Matrix)

2. Introduce Contrast and Conflict

Depict both positive and negative impacts of technology, exposing ethical risks alongside innovation.

Example:
Ex Machina examines AI autonomy versus human-centered thinking.

3. Clarify the Thematic Message

Integrate social critique into speculative storytelling.

Example:
Fahrenheit 451 critiques authoritarian suppression of free thought.

(III) Character Design

1. Character Types

• Protagonist: Scientist, adventurer, rebel leader—driven by strong goals and inner conflict.
  Example: Paul Atreides (Dune), both chosen one and avenger.
• Supporting Characters: Allies and mentors assisting the protagonist’s mission.
  Example: Obi-Wan Kenobi guiding Luke Skywalker (Star Wars).
• Antagonist: Embodiments of systemic or personal threats.
  Example: HAL 9000 (2001: A Space Odyssey), symbolizing technological excess.

2. Character Arc (Inner Growth)

Design layered goals, beliefs, and transformations:

• How does the protagonist resolve ethical dilemmas?
• What changes occur through resistance against society?

(IV) Plot Construction

1. Narrative Structure (Three-Act Model)

• Setup: Introduce world and characters; trigger a major disruption.
  Example: The Atreides family’s betrayal in Dune.
• Confrontation: Escalating conflict between protagonist and antagonist.
  Example: Intensifying human–android opposition in Blade Runner.
• Resolution: Climax and decisive choice revealing thematic meaning.
  Example: The “Dark Forest Theory” in The Three-Body Problem.

2. Narrative Tension

Emphasize crises and turning points.

Example:
Sudden space disasters (The Martian).

3. Suspense and Surprise

Employ narrative gaps and multiple plotlines to guide discovery.

(V) Writing Phase

1. Depict Technology and Settings

Use concrete, vivid, and visually striking descriptions.

Example:
The Sun’s Indifference (Ama Snowvien) portrays malfunctioning colony ships in detail.

2. Control Narrative Pacing

Alternate high-tension sequences with philosophical reflection.

3. Balance Character and Setting

Ensure characters remain emotionally vivid, not overshadowed by technology.

(VI) Refinement and Enhancement

1. Multiple Revisions: Ensure logical coherence and credible motivations.
2. Integrate Scientific Ethics: Deepen thematic substance beyond spectacle.
3. Invite Test Readers: Improve readability and scientific plausibility.

(VII) Sample Structural Framework

1. Theme: Conflicts arising from humanity’s pursuit of faster-than-light travel.
2. Setting: 23rd century; Earth faces ecological collapse, prompting the development of FTL engines.
3. Protagonist: A female scientist, Aelia, who exposes governmental conspiracies to prevent spacetime collapse caused by the engine.
4. Key Events:
5. 1. Discovery of the engine’s universe-destroying potential.
   2. Collaboration with underground scientists to solve the technical mystery.
   3. Confrontation with governmental cover-ups, ultimately achieving a balance between progress and civilizational survival.

Such a framework can sustain rich technological imagination, suspense, and profound human inquiry, demonstrating strong potential for an outstanding science fiction novel.