: Re: How to distinguish if a novel is science fiction or fantasy? Through the process of writing my novel, I've found that I really don't know where it fits in the written realm. I believe I should

@Cugini967

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Here is what I hope is a sufficient short answer:

Science Fiction and Fantasy both change or add some aspect to our world. The general difference is that, in Science Fiction, the new aspect (like interstellar space travel or aliens) could exist, following the laws of the world we live in. It also usually has a technological theme/tone. Fantasy usually invents something that requires new laws and/or does not fit in or follow the laws of our universe (like magic). Fantasy usually has a more magical/mystical tone.

But there is also a little choice involved. Something that breaks the laws of the universe but it achieved through the press of a button or through a machine might be considered science fiction. Likewise, something that does not violate the laws of our universe but is accomplished with the swish of a wand might be considered fantasy.

Really, the line between science fiction and fantasy is not a line at all. It's more like a gradient.

I'd say if it's tech, like warping between space, you're probably in science fiction. If you're magic, like Harry Potter, you're probably on the Fantasy side.

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