China's sci-fi luminary Liu Cixin and Canadian sci-fi titan Robert J. Sawyer met at the 81st World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon) on Wednesday in Chengdu, Sichuan province, to share their insights and reflections on the future of the world and genre.

Sci-fi writers Liu Cixin and Robert J. Sawyer meet the press during the 81st World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon) in Chengdu, Sichuan province, Oct. 18, 2023. [Photo courtesy of Chengdu Worldcon]

"In the vast expanse of the universe portrayed in science fiction, Earth is but a speck of dust, and we all exist collectively on this tiny particle," Liu said. In his view, science fiction uniquely portrays humanity as a unified entity, unlike other genres that emphasize divisions by nationality, race, or culture. This universal appeal prompts readers from varied backgrounds to contemplate the future more deeply.

Liu noted that Chengdu has always been a hot land for sci-fi, from which numerous Chinese sci-fi authors and works have emerged. Worldcon's arrival in this city, he felt, was a "natural progression" and an invaluable platform for fostering global interactions and discussing the genre's ever-evolving nature.

While many regions of the world are currently in turmoil and conflict, Sawyer observed that science fiction serves as a beacon. "What we have with the World Science Fiction Convention is people from all over the world coming together in one place because they share a positive belief that there will be a future. We believe in the future. We dream of the future. What we're doing here sets an example for a world that is very much not at peace and not cooperating. Right now, I think we are sending a very, very positive message out to the world."

The duo's accolades are impressive. Liu's "The Three-Body Problem" was groundbreaking, making him the first Asian writer to win the Hugo Award. Films adapted from his works, such as "The Wandering Earth" series and "Crazy Alien," have grossed billions of yuan on the Chinese film market. With 66 awards to his name, including the Hugo, Nebula, and John W. Campbell honors for "Hominids," "The Terminal Experiment," and "Mindscan," Sawyer stands as a towering figure in the sci-fi community. Both served as guests of honor at the Chengdu Worldcon.

Yet, success hasn't made Liu complacent. He confessed to struggling with his next novel, noting that the swift pace of technological advancement sometimes surpasses even his vivid imagination. "Now there's another force slowly replacing us — I don't know how much time artificial intelligence will leave for us," he said.

Liu believes that the evolution of science fiction stems from a sense of wonder sparked by scientific advancements. "This sense of wonder is crucial," he stated. "While both the East and the West are currently enhancing sci-fi with varied literary techniques, frankly, the results haven't been as promising as hoped. Today's sci-fi literature urgently needs significant transformations to recapture its former vitality. As for what those changes might be, only time will tell."

In Liu's view, the current hallmark of Chinese sci-fi development lies in its diverse styles and a burgeoning pool of talent. "This is a positive development model. However, I don't think we're in the golden age of Chinese science fiction literature just yet. We still lack influential writers and works," he said. "Conversely, I believe the growth of Chinese sci-fi films and TV dramas is faster and has a more promising future. Perhaps in the near future, Chinese sci-fi films and TV shows will lead on the global stage."

Sawyer expressed envy at the progress of China's sci-fi sector. "The reality is that science fiction is healthier here in China than it is in North America: Science fiction is selling less and less with each year, and fantasy is selling more and more. I want to know the secret of how you make young people very interested in science fiction literature because we have been failing at that in the English-speaking world."

In reply, Liu offered a broader view: "I believe that the future opportunities for Chinese science fiction do not depend solely on the genre, but on China's own trajectory of growth." To him, the nation's development and heightened future orientation provide an optimal backdrop for science fiction to flourish.

Both authors, deeply committed to fostering the next wave of sci-fi writers, shared valuable advice for young writers. Liu stressed starting sci-fi writing as a hobby, noting that it might not initially provide a livable income. Diving into a full-time writing career prematurely, he cautioned, could challenge one's livelihood and dampen one's passion for writing. He suggested transitioning to full-time only after achieving recognition and consistent sales.

Sawyer emphasized authenticity. "I think the most important thing is to be true to your culture. Don't think about what will sell in the United States. Consider what you can convey that will be powerful and meaningful, and trust that the world is now ready to hear your voice."

As for their predictions about the world a century from now? Liu, with aspirations of casual space tourism for himself, hopes that future generations will eclipse today's achievements. Sawyer's vision, firmly anchored in hope, longs for a harmonious world that values humanity.

Sawyer said, "I hope we have a prosperous world that's at peace, one that has addressed the environmental crises we all face and one that values human qualities alongside all the remarkable advancements artificial intelligence will bring. So, I hope that in 100 years, it's not a world dominated by living machines, a cyborg planet, or an AI-centric world, but still, a place where human beings are important, cherished, prized, and treated with dignity."

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