Meaning: Jean Auel, the author of the quote "Of the two, I would think of my work as closer to Science Fiction than Fantasy," is best known for her Earth's Children series, which includes the popular novel "The Clan of the Cave Bear." This quote provides insight into Auel's perspective on her own writing and how she categorizes it within the broader literary genres of science fiction and fantasy. In order to understand the significance of this quote, it is important to explore the distinctions between these two genres and how Auel's work aligns with them.

Science fiction and fantasy are often grouped together under the umbrella term "speculative fiction" due to their shared focus on imaginative and otherworldly elements. However, there are distinct differences between the two genres. Science fiction typically incorporates scientific and technological concepts, often set in the future or in alternative worlds, and explores the impact of these advancements on society and individuals. On the other hand, fantasy is characterized by magical or supernatural elements, often set in imaginary worlds with their own rules and mythologies.

In the context of Auel's quote, it is clear that she sees her work as more closely aligned with science fiction than fantasy. This is particularly interesting given that her Earth's Children series is primarily set in prehistoric times and follows the journey of a young Cro-Magnon woman named Ayla. The series incorporates detailed depictions of early human societies, survival skills, and the natural world, all of which suggest a strong basis in real-world history and anthropology. These elements are more commonly associated with the science fiction genre, as they involve extrapolations of known scientific principles and explore the potential consequences of human development.

Auel's emphasis on the scientific and historical aspects of her storytelling sets her work apart from traditional fantasy literature, which often revolves around magical beings, mythical creatures, and supernatural phenomena. By positioning her writing closer to science fiction, Auel may be emphasizing the rigorous research and attention to detail that underpin her narratives. This approach aligns with the traditions of hard science fiction, a subgenre that prioritizes scientific accuracy and feasibility in its speculative scenarios.

Furthermore, Auel's choice to distance her work from traditional fantasy may reflect a desire to emphasize the plausibility and relevance of her storytelling. While fantasy literature often delves into allegory, metaphor, and escapism, science fiction has a long tradition of engaging with contemporary social and ethical issues through the lens of speculative futures. By aligning her work with science fiction, Auel may be signaling her intent to address universal themes and human experiences in a grounded and thought-provoking manner.

It is important to note that Auel's characterization of her work as closer to science fiction does not negate the presence of fantastical elements in her storytelling. The Earth's Children series incorporates elements of mysticism, spirituality, and the blurred boundaries between human and animal behaviors, all of which resonate with themes commonly found in fantasy literature. However, by emphasizing the scientific and anthropological dimensions of her narratives, Auel invites readers to engage with her stories as explorations of human history and evolution, even as they contain elements of wonder and speculation.

In conclusion, Jean Auel's statement regarding the classification of her work sheds light on her approach to storytelling and the themes she seeks to explore. By positioning her writing closer to science fiction than fantasy, Auel emphasizes the scientific, historical, and anthropological underpinnings of her narratives, while still incorporating elements of wonder and imagination. This perspective invites readers to engage with her work as a reflection of human history and evolution, grounded in meticulous research and thoughtful speculation. Ultimately, Auel's quote encourages a nuanced understanding of genre boundaries and the diverse ways in which authors navigate and transcend established literary categories.