What Is Steampunk?
The term steampunk came into widespread use during the late 1980's. It was coined by science fiction author K. W. Jeter in an attempt to classify the genre of works written by himself,Tim Powers and James Blaylock. These works were set in the Victorian Era, when steam was a popular source of energy and they contained notably science fiction oriented twists. Steampunk writing frequently mimics the Victorian Era writing styles of Jules Verne, H.G. Wells, Mark Twain, and Mary Shelley, with an emphasis on steam or spring propelled gadgets and machines. The first documented use of the actual term steampunk was a letter to a magazine, in which Jeter wrote Personally, I think Victorian fantasies are going to be the next big thing, as long as we can come up with a fitting collective term for Powers, Blaylock and myself. Something based on the appropriate technology of the era; like "steampunks", perhaps.

Though Jeter is typically said to have established the genre, due to the fact that he gave it a name, William Gibson and Bruce Sterling are the writers who truly created widespread appreciation for steampunk with their 1990 novel The Difference Engine.

Any work that takes place in a recognizable time period after the Industrial Revolution but before the widespread use of electricity and relies heavily on the use of alternatively powered gadgets and devices can be said to fall under the steampunk catagory. Early steampunk writings traditionally took place in a world recognizable as our own, but more modern incarnations often rely more heavily on fantasy settings.

Once steampunk literature became popularized, it wasnt long before steampunk qualities began to leak into other aspects of pop culture. Steampunk elements can be seen in fashion, home decor, film, sculpture, art and music and is also referred to as Neo Victorianism. Everything from clothing and jewelry to desktop computers have been styled using the steampunk aesthetic. Gowns, corsets, and other Victorian styles are typically recognizable in steampunk attire with accessories such as goggles and elaborate time pieces accenting the looks. Metals such as brass and iron are popular along with items crafted from leather and wood.

Steampunk is popular amongst counter-cultures like goths, punks and cybergoths and for many it has grown from an aesthetic to a whole way of life.  Punk inspired anti-establishment sentiments are often associated with the steampunk philosophy, which focuses on human potential and alternate tracks for the future.

 

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