rivervox

Well, it seems I needn't have worried. I didn't actually meet anyone last night. I went to two panels, one on health care and one on the influence of film on speculative fiction. They were interesting discussions and I got to hear Caitlin R. Kiernan and Elizabeth Bear, which was tremendous. My brain is full of books, films and ideas. Readercon is a master class in sci-fi. It's also like a reunion. When I entered the hotel, which is in the middle of nowhere or rather middle of suburban hell, it was like walking into a wedding reception. Throngs of happy people greeting and hugging and babbling. I was intimidated and headed straight for the bar and the tart, icy comfort of a margarita. After a quick drink and a fire alarm, it was time for the panels. They were fascinating, if sort of rambling, good-spirited conversations. What really impressed me was the incredible age-spectrum of the audience. I can't think of many places where people in their 70's hang out with 20 year olds. The profound depth of knowledge of the genre was awe-inspiring. I understand now why Readercon is so beloved. I wish I could spend the weekend with that tribe just endlessly discussing books.