What is Steampunk?
Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction and speculative fiction which features elements of fantasy. Steampunk genre became popular in the 1980s and early 1990s. The word steampunk stands for literature that takes place in a world where steam power is still widely used, Victorian England, for example, but with prominent elements of either science fiction or fantasy, such as fictional technological inventions, or real technological developments occurring at an earlier date than in reality.
The steampunk genre was influenced by and often adopts the style of the 19th century scientific romances of Jules Verne, H.G. Wells, Mark Twain, and Mary Shelley. Because he coined the term, K.W. Jeter’s 1979 novel Morlock Night is typically considered to have established the genre.
There is a growing movement towards establishing steampunk as a culture and lifestyle.
Steampunk fashion has no set guidelines, but tends to synthesize modern styles influenced by the Victorian era. This may include gowns, corsets, petticoats and bustles; suits with vests, coats and spats; or military-inspired garments. Steampunk-influenced outfits will often be accented with a mixture of technological and period accessories: timepieces, parasols, goggles and ray guns. Steampunk has also invaded the art work, most especially in jewelry and sculpture, combining modern techniques with watch parts, gears, and other clockwork movement parts.
