Steampunk
Steampunk is a genre of fiction that usually takes place in Victorian times or, more generally, any pre-modern time with significant industrial revolution aspects. Often in homage to H. G. Wells or Jules Verne. Works may be science fiction or fantastic. Note: "steampunk fiction" was approved as a Library of Congress subject heading, 2010/03/17.[1]
Steampunk also refers to a movement in fashion and design, which combines Victorian and Edwardian aesthetics and technology with more modern technologies. Emphasis on visible gears and old-fashioned scientific accoutrements is a key element.
Related term: cyberpunk
Names
The term was apparently coined by K. W. Jeter.
Related or synonymous terms (mostly taken from Steampunk FAQ at Brass Goggles) include:
- Victorian Science Fiction or VSF
- Gaslamp Fantasy
- Steampulp
- Fireside Science Fiction
- Neo-Victoriania; Elegant Gothic Lolita
- Wild/Weird West
- Voyages Extraordinaire
- Scientific Romance
Works
- Michael Moorcock, The Warlord of the Air (1971) and sequels
- K. W. Jeter's Morlock Night (1979) and Infernal Devices: A Mad Victorian Fantasy
- Tim Powers, The Anubis Gates (1983)
- James Blaylock, Homunculus (1986)
- William Gibson & Bruce Sterling, The Difference Engine (1990)
- K. J. Bishop, The Etched City (2003)
- Katsuhiro Otomo, "Steamboy" (2004)
- Wendy Walker, The Secret Service
- Kaja Foglio and Phil Foglio, "Girl Genius" (described as "Gaslamp Fantasy")
- Alan Moore & Kevin O'Neill's The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (comic series)
Further reading