Achmed Khammas on The Almost Complete Lack of the Element of “Futureness”

Achmed Khammas has written a fascinating article The Almost Complete Lack of the Element of “Futureness” which discusses why there is an almost lack of interest and even awareness about Science Fiction in the Arab world. One of the reaons why there is an almost lack of futureness in Arab Fiction is because “they prefer to hark back to a glorious past, which, in hindsight, appears brighter and shinier than any imaginable future in these desolate economies, under these rigid regimes and under the increasing pressure of globalisation. This behaviour is understandable, since these things are constantly present in everyday life for most Arab people. And for many, the daily reality proves that the war is a long way from being over.” While one may or may not agree with Achmed Khammas’ analysis but it is definitely worth a read. His analysis can be summarized by the following quote from Dr. Omar Abdelaziz. A scientific novel which is connected with phantasy cannot fall on fertile ground in an environment of preprepared answers and rejection of a culture of knowledge. The complete article can be read at the following URL:

The Almost Complete Lack of the Element of “Futureness”