Fantasy..

How is science fiction different from fantasy, according to Le Guinn (http://www.ursulakleguin.com/PlausibilityRevisited.html)?

According to Le Guinn there is a distinct difference between the two genres sci-fi and fantasy. It's easy to get the two confused as they share similar characteristics and features of film techniques. From reading 'Plausibility Revisited' (2005) a simple way of defining the two is that sci-fi is fiction based on reality, a possibility or example of realism. Le Guinn mentions 'Such a close correspondence of the real world and the fictional world is a defining characteristic of realism. It is not a defining characteristic of fiction.' The believability in which sci-fi films have is key in the success of the film. Sci-fi is a genre that contains facts which conveys realism more. Generally the films are normally based on real events so therefore it isn't so far fetched for example 'District 9' with the 'prawns' being a metaphor for  the victims of the apartheid. Sci-fi presents the consequences our actions may have in the future and that is what makes it a believable genre, it showcases the unknown and plays with our fears and imagination. Le Guinn also mentions 'Fiction is what didn't happen, but realistic fiction pretends that it did. Realism uses actuality and history, inserting invented characters in amongst real people and places...'.

Fantasy is different however, according to Le Guinn. Fantasy unlike sci-fi isn't based on realism, it can range from extremities and still be just as successful. Le Guinn says 'There is no agreement to pretend that its story happened, might have happened, or might ever happen. Its invention is radical.' This is where our imagination can run wild, the films thrive on possibility and audiences like it as it can be somewhat escapism from the real world. Le Guinn explains that 'Fantasy is shamelessly fictive. Some people feel it's wicked to invent something God didn't think of. Others see it as a waste of time. And to others, fantasy is an exercise of what may be our most divine and certainly is our most human capacity, the imagination.' The wizard of Earthsea fits in the fantasy genre undoubtedly. It displays a mythical island that is far from ever being reality and characters who are mystical and magical.

References:

Plausibility Revisited. (2005). Wha Hoppen and What Didn't. Retrieved from http://www.ursulakleguin.com/PlausibilityRevisited.html