A SOLVATHON AT THE BIELER SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENT
McGill University

Keynote speakers: Kim Stanley Robinson and Annalee Newitz

OCTOBER 12-13, 2023 

As we face the climate crisis, pessimistic, depressing, even nihilistic narratives dominate our global discourse, driven by scientists reporting facts and projections. 

How we tell that story, makes a difference. 

We need a range of moods and voices, and to include optimism, survival, resilience, transcendence and positivity, to carry us through dark times and help us make tough choices. 

The science fiction community has understood this. Hopepunk is a speculative fiction genre dedicated to positive narratives of social change and transformation,  emphasizing empathy, kindness, community, and care. 

Over two days in October 2023 (12th and 13th), Montreal 2140: Hopeful Futures in Science and Storytelling will bring together writers, researchers, and students across disciplines to tackle key questions at the nexus of storytelling and the climate crisis. 

KEYNOTE SPEAKERs

Annalee Newitz

Journalist and author

Annalee Newitz is a journalist and author of fiction and non-fiction, a contributor to publications such as Popular Science, Wired and The New York Times, and former editor
in chief of websites Gizmodo and 
io9. Their novels include The Future of Another Timeline and The Terraformers, and they co-host the award-winning podcast Our Opinions Are Correct.

Kim Stanley Robinson

Author

Kim Stanley Robinson is the author of 22 novels, including the Mars 
trilogy, New York 2140 and The Ministry for the Future.
His writings address such themes as nature, ecology, sustainability, social justice and climate change. In 2018 he was awarded the Arthur C. Clarke Award for Imagination in Service to Society.

Price: Free (reserve your place here)
Location: L’Arrière-scène, Esplanade Tranquille Pavilion, 1442 rue Clark, Montreal
Metro Station: Place des Arts or Saint Laurent