What are space operas, and what is their relationship to science fiction? Join us this episode for a long talk on the ins and outs, the ups and downs, and the future significance of this--what, subgenre? Mode? Cat?

CATS!

We open with a quick reading from Catherynne Valente's new breakout hit, appropriately titled "Space Opera" and featuring, appropriately, one super serious feline threat. We then talk about a number of other, less obviously named space operas, including the immortal "Hitchhiker's Guide," some Kim Stanley Robinson, "Star's End," and Ian McDonald's "Luna" series. We give a quick hat-tip to fan favorites such as the MCU (especially "Guardians of the Galaxy" and "Thor: Ragnarok"), "Star Wars," and "Star Trek." We're interested in modes and media, stakes and science, and what makes a blockbuster versus a flop. It's all here, and it's all SUPER DRAMATIC!

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Thanks for listening!