To have a better understanding of where we are, it’s important to know where we came from. It’s important to have a solid foundation. This is evident obviously in mathematics: For example, how can you perform different calculus if you don’t know basic algebra? Likewise, how can we critically read modern sci-fi if we don’t have some knowledge of its history? Naturally, knowledge of past sci-fi isn’t necessary to enjoy modern sci-fi. In fact, it might even make modern sci-fi more enjoyable—you won’t be put off by a tired trope if you don’t know it’s a trope, right?

However, I think there can be great value in reading older sci-fi. For starters, there are some quality gems of literature there to be enjoyed. Many modern novels draw inspiration from these classics for a reason—because they’re very good! It’s also interesting to see how authors in the past envisioned the future. Sometimes their predictions came true; sometimes their warnings are just as relevant today as they were back then.

To further my reading horizons, I’m researching the classics. I encourage you to follow along and maybe even do your own research. Let me know in the comments some of your favorite sci-fi classics 🙂