Here's my final schedule for Arisia. Hope to see you there.
Writing Deities, Magic and the Occult
Fri 7:00 PM Alcott
Magic is a large part of what makes the fantasy genre distinctive. But how do you write, and describe, the ‘unseen?’ Our panel of occultists will explain how to draw upon mythology and religion to build a realistic magical system, the rules of magic, and ways a good magic system can enhance the mood of your story, facilitate the narrative, and provide a source of conflict. Cecilia Tan (moderator), Lisa Batya Feld, Keith Yatsuhashi, Alex Shvartsman, Morven Westfield.
It Came From the Past…
Sat 8:30 AM Douglas
Ghosts often appear in stories as signifiers of old crimes, guilt, and injustice that needs to be corrected. In this panel, we’ll face the accusing ghosts, the avenging ghosts, and the ghosts who remind us of things done wrong. Why does the ghost work so well as a visitor from the past? How can ghosts lead readers to a better understanding of injustice and history? What ghosts need to be summoned to remind readers of what has gone on before? Morven Westfield (moderator), Darcie Little Badger, Elsa Sjunneson-Henry, Gordon Linzner, Morgan Crooks.
Broad Universe Rapid Fire Reading
Sat 10:00 AM Adams
If you’ve never been to a Broad Universe RFR (Rapid-Fire Reading), give it a try. They’re a lot of fun, yet sometimes very sobering and thought-provoking as well. You might hear stories of horror, fantasy, or science fiction — or a delightful combination of all of the above.
The final list of readers includes Anna Erishkigal, Dianna Sanchez, Heather Albano, Julie C. Day, LJ Cohen, Randee Dawn, Roxanne Bland, Suzanne Reynolds-Alpert, Morven Westfield (me), Trisha Wooldridge, and Victoria Sandbrook. (Not all authors may be in attendance for the entire time slot. Other members of Broad Universe not listed may be reading.)
