Steampunk FAQ: All That's Left to Know About the World of Goggles Airships and Time Travel

by Mike Perschon

(FAQ). "What is steampunk?" Going beyond the standard default definitions of "Victorian science fiction," "yesterday's tomorrow today," or some other equally vague or limited description, Steampunk FAQ provides a historical exploration of its literary and cinematic origins. The journey begins with a look at steampunk's genesis in the novels and short stories of three Californians who hung out a lot with Philip K. Dick, before moving on to the inspirations and antecedents of steampunk. Contrary to what many articles and books say, steampunk's direct inspiration is arguably far more cinematic than literary, a likely reaction to the many film adaptations, pastiches, and knockoffs of the scientific romances of Jules Verne and H. G. Wells. While Verne, Wells, and a host of other Victorian and Edwardian writers have influenced steampunk fiction, cinematic elements from films such as Disney's 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1954) and George Pal's Time Machine (1960) show up more often as immediate influences on the style we call steampunk. In offering a celebration of steampunk's style and cultural aesthetic, Steampunk FAQ also explores its connection to cyberpunk, the world of fashion, comics, and culture around the world.

Genres: Steampunk

332 pages, Paperback

Published September 1, 2018

Reviews

[Mandy Eve-Barnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous history of steampunk, lots of interesting facts and such an enlightening look at this incredible world of make believe.
A great resource for anyone writing steampunk.

[caro_cactus · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent reference guide to steampunk, clear and engaging.

[Lindsey Rojem · Rating 4 out of 5]

In hindsight, I could have used this for my "written by a local author" reading challenge prompt, as I picked the book up at the Edmonton Comic Expo last year. I did end up skimming some of the book and game reviews, but I still loved how deeply Mike went into the history and sub-genres of steampunk. I'm a huge Gail Carriger fan so I loved how often her books were mentioned, and was thrilled to read about Punch Drunk Cabaret, who I have also seen live. I was also really impressed with the steampunk fashion section and enjoyed reading about the different Steam Cons and expo experiences.

[J.M. Frey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A comprehensive and informative overview of the aesthetic, without being stuffy and formal, or weighing down the prose with academic jargon. It's even a bit cheeky at times, which I appreciate.

Steampunk FAQs is a very recommended read for those who have no idea what Steampunk is, as well as for those who are corset-deep in the scene and want a fuller understanding of the history and great works of art that comprise this art form.

I especially appreciate the emphasis on the Punk of Steampunk, and a deeper look at the social issues that Steampunk addresses underneath the gears and goggles.

[Avigayil · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tonight, I am off to watch Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind in Japanese (w/ E.S.T.) in theatres. The Nausicaä books by Hayao Miyazaki also sit on the top of my bookshelf in a place of honour – next to my Absolute Death by Neil Gaiman and my Complete Calvin & Hobbes by Bill Watterson. I love Nausicaä, in case it isn’t clear, both the world and the aesthetic are incredibly beautiful. While recently googling the movie, I noticed Nausicaä is sometimes classified as steampunk. What makes it steampunk? Sure, Nausicaä has goggles, improbable flying machines, brass-armor prosthetic limbs, and unusual tech, but is that all it takes to make a movie (or anime or comic or TV series or more) steampunk?
If you want to know the answer to that question and many more – read Perschon’s Steampunk FAQ. The book delves in to not only what steampunk “really is” but also how that definition/meaning has evolved over time and how works of literature, pop culture, and more have contributed to that evolution. For those who have never read the subliminal texts, seen the movies, played the games, or read the books – that is alright: the author gives you enough of a summary that your toes will touch ground long enough for you to understand WHY that bit matters.
Steampunk FAQ covers a lot of ground in a relatively short number of pages, and it is very much a book that dips its brass-clad toes into a myriad of pools without delving too deep. Expect to come away with a reading list the length of your mechanical arm and a movie list nearly as long (or longer). There will be albums you need to listen to, games you need to play, clothing you need to buy, and conventions you need to attend.
So, read this book if you want to know what steampunk is. Read this book if you want to be able to annoy all those preppies dressed up in last years’ convention goggles and off-the-rack corsets that don’t know a thing about steampunk, except it is very brown and involves buttons. Read this book to discover how Steampunk not only touches some of your favourite music, movies, games, and clothing but indulges in a reciprocal relationship of molding and shaping. Read this book if you don’t give two flying zeppelins about steampunk but you like to learn when the subject matter is presented intelligently.
Overall, Steampunk FAQ is an excellent, intelligent read that will give you an introduction to steampunk and leave you wanting more. By the way, if you want to know if/why Studio Ghibli's Nausicaä is/is not steampunk, check out page 153 – though I do recommend starting on page 1.

[Sumit · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must read for those who are interested in the history of steampunk both as a literary genre and as a cultural movement