Although science fiction novel experts may regret it, the best-known names are still the classics. Ray Bradbury, Isaac Asimov, Philip K. Dick and other authors are named when asked about writers of the genre, either because of their training in the 20th century or because of the adaptations that were released of their works.
But there are others that are less famous, at least to the general public, that today are of great importance and essential for understanding the genre. some too were adapted for cinema and others advanced the present with their works. Within this second line are authors such as JG Ballard, who passed away in 2009.
Present in Spanish bookstores for decades, his novels have never been excessively popular although there are well-known films based on his works: Crash, skyscrapers, Empire of the Sun…
Ballard is someone essential to science fiction literature and now we find him in bookstores again.
Minotauro publishing has already started Author’s library dedicated to JG Ballard in your pocketformat that has always served as an accessible access route for many people. They started with collide and in November they relaunch cocaine nights.
The revolution begins without big explosions
In any case, Talking about JG Ballard is talking about a brilliant writer, but also an uncomfortable one. and far from the pyrotechnic spectacle, space opera and the feeling of wonder that many look for in science fiction. It is disturbing because it focuses on what is closest to us, such as our psyche, the technology that surrounds us or the social order.
Who has seen the collide by David Cronenberg you will understand what we are talking about. The film, very faithful to the novel, studies how vehicles – technology – affect personal and sexual relationships. In another novel that adapts it, Skyscrapera building turns into a jungle where tenants begin to form wild tribes.
Although it is rarely associated with this other genreBallard’s ideas provoke terror because at no point does he see a possible separation between the future and violence. Something that really seems difficult to discuss.
Revolutions begin in our homes, in shopping malls, appear with small changes in our technology or diet, and in the end each individual faces an epic struggle even if it seems like they live in a routine. Reading JG Ballard can lead to a certain pessimism, but also to the understanding that there is lucidity in his vision of reality and, above all, an incredible prospective success in his works.
The English author was never a bestseller, but whoever read it will not forget. We hope to continue doing this in the coming years with the recovery of most of his novels.
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