Recursive Science Fiction

What is Recursive Science Fiction?

Recursive Science Fiction is the most metafictional of all Science Fiction sub-genres; it is Science Fiction about Science Fiction. That is to say, the narrative story of a Sci Fi story explores Sci Fi itself. Plots, characters, settings, descriptive terms (like avatars) are recycled throughout Sci Fi.

There are three basic variants of Recursive Sci Fi: tuckerization, intertextuality, full-blown recursion. Tuckerization uses real people as fictional characters usually achieved through inside-knowledge, much like an inside-joke or homage. These characters can also be Sci Fi fans or authors. Intertexuality happens when a reference to another text is made within the story. Intertextuality is more than just the influence of one text on another, there are deliberate connections that shape the narrative. Full-blown recursions are self-reflexive narratives that offer commentary on the genre of Sci Fi.

Recursive Sci Fi is popular within the Sci Fi community. Some stories can be quite cheeky and even silly while others present poignant examinations of the genre. In a positive light, Recursive Sci Fi is a celebration of the Sci Fi genre. Alternatively, it is a sub-genre that allows writers to comment on their frustrations, like feeling marginalized in the literary world.  

You can view the crowd-ranked "Popular" Recursive Science Fiction Books list and vote and/submit entries to it.