Attempting Quote by Arthur C. Clarke
“Attempting to define science fiction is an undertaking almost as difficult, though not so popular, as trying to define pornography... In both pornography and SF, the problem lies in knowing exactly where to draw the line.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Interview with Arthur C. Clarke, 1970
Defining science fiction is as contentious and elusive as defining pornography, because both hinge on ambiguous boundaries.
In simple terms: Science fiction and pornography are hard to define.
Key Takeaway
Accept ambiguity and focus on intent.
Themes
definition
boundary
genre
culture
controversy
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- Writing sci‑fi
- media criticism
- educational curricula
- public policy debates
Key Concepts
Literary theory
social norms
censorship
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria truly separate sci‑fi from other genres?
- How does cultural context affect what is considered pornographic?
A Different Perspective
The line may shift over time and across societies, making any definition provisional.
