Vintage SciFi 1 First Australian SciFi
Welcome to “Vintage SciFi,” the podcast that delves into the early works of science fiction. In episode one I explore the first section of a remarkable piece of literature: “Australia Advanced: Or Dialogues for the Year 2032” by Mephistophole the Younger. Published in 1832 in the Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser, this visionary story stands as the first Australian SciFi narrative to grace the pages of an Australian newspaper, and marks the dawn of Australian Science Fiction.
In Dialogue 1, a traveler arrives in Sydney Cove on a steamship from London and is greeted by an Australian. They discuss the development of Sydney and nearby areas, such as Watson’s Town, and marvel at the technological advancements, including the steamship “Rapid” with its 400 horsepower engines. Exciting stuff!
The dialogues between the characters in this story offer a glimpse into the aspirations and technological dreams of the era, making it a fascinating read for both historical and literary enthusiasts.
And now, in a podcast for the first time, here is the first of five ‘Dialogues’ from 1832.
More episodes coming soon.