Writing Excuses

19.22: Technology and Identity (A Close Reading on Worldbuilding)

Jun 2, 2024

Delving into the intersection of technology and identity in worldbuilding, the episode explores Imago technology in 'A Memory Called Empire' and the implications of self-modification. Discussing the impact of documentaries on storytelling, the hosts encourage writers to draw inspiration from real-world complexities. They prompt listeners to envision scenarios challenging individual identity through technology and magic, sparking creativity in crafting debate scenes.

26:02

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Quick takeaways

Amago technology raises questions about individual identity and societal values

Connection to ancestors highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage and identity

Deep dives

Exploring Amago Technology and Identity

The podcast delves into the concept of the Amago technology, where memories of predecessors are embedded into individuals, creating voices in their heads. It raises questions about the definition of self and explores how technology can shape identity. The narrative showcases the intricate connections between technology and individuality, emphasizing how modifications to our minds can redefine the concept of self.

Introduction

2min

Exploring the Interplay of Technology and Identity in 'A Memory Called Empire'

2min

Exploring Identity and Technology in a Technologically Advanced Society

10min

Exploring Real-World Complexity through Documentaries

5min

Exploring Technology, Identity, and Worldbuilding

11min

Exploring the Impact of Technology on Identity

3min

The imago technology lies at the heart of this novel thematically and narratively. How does this technology create a world, delineate Mahit's culture from Teixcalaan, and ask enormous questions about identity and empire?

Thing of the Week: “Rotten” (Documentary Series available on Netflix)

Homework: Come up with three technological or magical approaches that would raise questions about what it means to be you, to be an individual. Take one of these, and then write a scene wherein two characters argue about it.

For those of you just joining us, here's what our close reading series has covered, and what lays ahead!

Close Reading Series: Texts & Timeline

Voice: This is How You Lose the Time War by Max Gladstone and Amal El-Mohtar (March 17)

Worldbuilding: A Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine (May 12)

Character: “You Perfect, Broken Thing,” “The Cook,” and “Your Eyes, My Beacon: Being an Account of Several Misadventures and How I Found My Way Home” by CL Clark (July 7)

Tension: Ring Shout by P. Djèlí Clark (September 1)

Structure: The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin (October 13)

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Credits: Your hosts for this episode were Mary Robinette Kowal, DongWon Song, Erin Roberts, Dan Wells, and Howard Tayler. It was produced by Emma Reynolds, recorded by Marshall Carr, Jr., and mastered by Alex Jackson.

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