Disputing the Deluge: Collected 21st-Century Writings on Utopia, Narration, and Survival

Darko Suvin is a renowned science fiction scholar who has significantly impacted the field through his innovative linking of science fiction to utopian studies, formalist and leftist critical theory, and political epistemology. "Disputing the Deluge: Critical Essays on Science Fiction and Utopianism" is a collection of 24 of Suvin's most significant interventions in the field from the 21st century, exploring how speculative fiction has responded to key events and transformations, such as 9/11, the global war on terror, the 2008 economic collapse, and the rise of conservative populism. The collection provides new generations of students and scholars with a direct engagement with Suvin's work and its ongoing importance and timeliness.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 13 January 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Darko Suvin, a renowned figure in science fiction studies, has left an indelible mark on the field for over five decades. Through his pioneering approach, he has seamlessly intertwined science fiction with utopian studies, formalist and leftist critical theory, and political epistemology, shaping the direction of the discipline. In his latest offering, Disputing the Deluge, Suvin presents a collection of 24 of his most significant interventions in the field, spanning from the early 2000s to the present day. This comprehensive volume, edited by Hugh OConnell and featuring a new preface by Suvin himself, serves as a testament to the ongoing relevance and significance of his work.

The essays gathered in this collection offer a profound exploration of the role of literary genres and the intricate relationship between science fiction and fantasy. Each essay is a testament to engaged thought, showcasing the immense value of science fiction in addressing the critical events and transformations of recent years. Suvin's incisive interrogations delve into how speculative fiction has responded to significant global events such as 9/11, the global war on terror, the 2008 economic collapse, and the rise of conservative populism. Moreover, he provides contemporary critical utopian analyses of pressing issues such as the Capitalocene, the climate crisis, COVID-19, and the decline of democracy.

By consolidating Suvin's essays in a single volume, this collection provides an invaluable opportunity for new generations of students and scholars to engage directly with his work. It serves as a gateway to his intellectual legacy, allowing them to delve into his thought-provoking ideas and gain a deeper understanding of the ongoing relevance and timeliness of his ideas. Darko Suvin's contribution to science fiction studies is truly remarkable, and Disputing the Deluge is a testament to his enduring influence and impact.

Weight: 604g
Dimension: 154 x 227 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501384776