I spent most of last weekend at OctoCon (The National Irish Science Fiction Convention). I first heard about it last year and went along, tempted by the Author Panels listed on the programme. A panel consists of three to four authors and a moderator presenting to an audience on a specific topic. Most people have heard of ComiCon, which also has panels, but having attended both conventions last year, I felt that those at OctoCon provided considerably more in terms of variety and quality.
This year’s OctoCon website describes the event better than I can, as ‘a weekend celebration of our favourite stories from books, comics, TV, films and games; attracting artists, writers, film-makers and fans from across the human sphere of influence’. If you have no interest in science fiction or fantasy, don’t let that put you off. The topics covered by the panels are so diverse that writers of any genre would find something of interest. If you fancy something different, there are also workshops, board games, fan chats and author readings. The panel topics this year included the following:
- Myths, Legends and Fairytales: Retelling and Reshaping – Many writers have mined the rich seams of folklore, fairy tales and myths to create new stories and retell old favourites in their own way. Why are some source stories used more than others, and is it possible to change something so completely from the original that it can no longer be considered a retelling?
- Being Human – Do Frankenstein’s monster, the hosts of Westworld, and the X-men fit our ever-expanding definitions of what makes someone ‘human’? How far can we be changed before we are no longer considered human?
- Writing for the Next Generation – Best-selling children’s authors talk about the unique challenges and pleasures of writing for the toughest critics of all.
- Is It Getting Hot in Here? Fiction is traditionally a way of conveying ideas to the masses – sci-fi often does so from an alien point of view. How can writers best address climate change and other environmental Issues?
- Finding the Write Balance – No one is ever just one thing. Writers may choose to find complementary and supplementary ways of supporting their creative endeavours. Our panellists discuss what works for them.
Each panel generally lasts an hour and allows for audience questions before the end. It’s an excellent opportunity to hear first-hand experiences and anecdotes from successful authors, illustrators and other professionals in the industry. The panellists are often available afterwards to chat or sign books.
On Saturday evening, I spent an hour perusing the stands in the trade hall and picked up some great books including
- Spark City by Robert J. Power
- Dublin’s Fierce City (A Fantasy and Sci-Fi Anthology) by Cupán Fae
- Old Gods and Wicked Things (flash stories) by Paul Carroll
- Raven Heart by Murphy Lawless (aka C. E. Murphy)
- Spare & Found Parts by Sarah Maria Griffin
Several authors were on hand and happy to chat. Special mention to Robert J. Power of De Paor Press, who enthusiastically answered my questions about his writing and publishing journey.
I thoroughly enjoyed the weekend, eagerly going from one talk to another, grabbing a quick coffee or snack from the bar en route. The author readings at lunchtime were a real treat, especially those by Sarah Maria Griffin and C.E. Murphy.
It was encouraging to hear established authors recount their experiences and realise that they too often struggle with a blank page or a difficult edit, with imposter syndrome and plots that lose their way. They are not superheroes or blessed with gifts from the gods. They work hard, stay focused on their goals and understand that a writing career takes time. Overall, I came away with some great ideas for my own work, and a healthy refill of enthusiasm and motivation. It can often be difficult, juggling a day job with a writing ambition, wondering if I am doing it all wrong and just wasting time.
Next year, Dublin is hosting WorldCon, running from Aug 15th – 19th in the Convention Centre. I’ve already booked time off work for those five days and can’t wait for another weekend of inspiration and creativity.
Happy Writing,
Harry
Useful Links
OctoCon 2018
Dublin WorldCon 2019
Robert J. Power, Author
De Paor Press
Cupán Fae
Paul Carroll, Author
C.E. Murphy, Author
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