Understanding True Steampunk: Mythbusting the Steampunk Fandom

Steampunk, often portrayed as a romanticized and fantastical depiction of a Victorian era infused with steampowered technology, has gained a significant following in recent years. However, many of the depictions within the fandom do not fully capture the essence of what constitutes true steampunk. This article aims to explore what truly defines steampunk, debunking common myths and clarifying misconceptions about the genre.

The Myths and Realities of Steampunk

One of the biggest misconceptions about steampunk is the idea of there being a strict standard of what constitutes ‘true’ steampunk. In reality, the genre is rooted in a mix of historical science fiction and pop culture tropes, making it nearly impossible to define a pure form. Instead, we must look at the three main aspects of steampunk: literature, aesthetics, and community.

True Steampunk: A Blend of Myth and Metaphor

True steampunk goes beyond mere aesthetics; it is a narrative that uses a fantastical setting and technologies based on the past to examine contemporary issues of society, economy, and spirituality. By setting the story in a world that never was, the writer helps the reader decontextualize these issues, allowing them to explore themes more objectively.

The use of steampunk as a setting serves a deeper purpose: it distracts the reader from their own preconceptions about the past, present, and future, enabling them to examine the themes in a more objective manner. This is not to say that all steampunk stories need to adhere to a strict historical or scientific accuracy; rather, they should maintain a connection to the real world while exploring these themes in a captivating way.

What About Steam Machines?

While steam-powered machines are a common hallmark of steampunk, they are not the sole defining feature. In fact, many true steampunk stories focus more on the social and ideological aspects of the setting rather than the mechanics of steampower. The battle against the idea of empire or the promotion of a progressive view are examples of how true steampunk can express these themes while incorporating steam technology.

For instance, in the trilogy mentioned in the introduction, the first story features a steam-powered machine, but subsequent stories explore the more philosophical and ideological aspects of the setting. The third story, about Lovecraftian myths, showcases the genre’s ability to delve into deeper and more complex narratives. These stories demonstrate that true steampunk doesn’t necessarily require steam-powered vehicles but requires a robust thematic exploration.

Limitations and Realism in Steampunk

While steam-powered machines add a sense of authenticity, steampunk must stay within the bounds of science fiction for a meaningful exploration of its themes. The writer can introduce a few unconventional conceits to justify the differences from reality, but the world must still function in a logical manner.

A world that differs too drastically from reality can undermine the narrative, leading the reader to focus more on the impracticalities of the setting than on the themes being explored. For example, a world where factories continue to employ Dickensian orphans when they could use Earth Elemental Meekseeks is less conducive to a meaningful exploration of the issues being addressed.

Therefore, the mixture of historical technology with contemporary themes is what defines true steampunk. While steam-powered machines are a popular feature, they should serve as a backdrop to the deeper narrative rather than the primary focus. The genre excels when it promotes a progressive view, challenges societal norms, and encourages readers to think beyond their preconceptions.

In conclusion, the true essence of steampunk lies in its ability to blend historical science fiction with contemporary themes. It is not merely a fashion or a style, but a rich narrative that invites readers to explore complex issues while being absorbed in a world of wonder and possibility.