In 2022, approximately 70 science fiction novellas were published in China. Although the number has decreased compared to previous years, the quality remains consistent when considering the depth of subject matter, the construction of a science fiction discourse system with Chinese characteristics, and explorations in narrative artistry. In terms of subject matter, post-human, metaverse, and artificial intelligence emerged as the most popular themes, blending futuristic imaginations with genuine societal concerns. The construction of a science fiction discourse system imbued with Chinese characteristics is noteworthy. This is manifested in the transformative utilization of Chinese historical and cultural discourse, the profound integration of uniquely Chinese popular literary genres such as martial arts and fantasy with science fiction, and the incorporation of region-specific Chinese narratives. In the realm of science fiction narrative artistry, there have been avant-garde attempts at scientizing narrative language, meta-narratives, and cross-media storytelling, with further deepening in genre-specific narratives.

2022  /  science fiction novella  /  creation overview  /  science fiction with Chinese characteristics