
What we’re about
"The delight which SF writers show when encountering one another personally. . .indicates some common element shared by them, novices and old pros alike. There always emerges a psychological rapport, even if the ideas and politics in their respective works clash head-on; it is as if absolutely opposite themes in their published work—which might be expected to create a personal barrier when the writers meet face to face—this barrier is never there, and a feeling when a group of SF writers gathers is always one of a family rejoined, lost friends refound or new friends made—friends among whom there is a fundamental basis of outlook or at least of personality structure. Nearly always it is characterized by a mutual respect, and this respect on the part of each writer is for the others as persons, not merely a respect for their work. We are linked as if scattered members of a once tightly knit ethnic group which has been scattered, but then momentarily reunited. I have felt this with no other group of people: Something special is there in us, that not only is common but which binds us rather than separates us as one finds, say, in the social gatherings of the so-called "New York literary writers," in which chronic jealousy and envy and sour carping impede personal contact. To my knowledge, this camaraderie and rapport is at least currently unique in the arts; and it means something; it tells something about us."
—Philip K. Dick, "Who is an SF Writer?
I'd like to create regular meet ups with people who currently write, or have an interest in writing, science fiction. We could meet to have conversations and get to know one another over a bite to eat. Or, if there is interest in the group, we could all come to a meeting having read the same SF short story, or attend an SF movie together, or share our written work with each other. This group could evolve in many directions depending on people's interests and preferences. You don't have to be published, as the quote above implies.
Upcoming events (1)
See all- First Meeting (Milwaukee Science Fiction Writers)Milwaukee Central Library, Milwaukee, WI
Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025
Time: 3:30–5:00 p.m.
Location: Milwaukee Central Library (814 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233), Business Commons (2nd Floor), Connection RoomThis will be the first meeting of the Milwaukee Science Fiction Writers. I'll bring some finger food (keeping in mind common dietary restrictions).
If you have any trouble finding the location above, library staff will be happy to help. (This event's photo shows what the Connection Room looks like. It is on the left side of the Business Commons area, which is on the 2nd floor of the Milwaukee Central Library.)
Below is a rough agenda we can follow, if structure is needed—otherwise we can keep things pretty casual. I look forward to meeting everyone.
### 1. Welcome & Introductions
- Brief welcome by the organizer
- Roundtable introductions:
- Name
- What draws you to science fiction?
- Any current writing projects?
- A favorite SF book or author
### 2. Group Purpose & Vision
- Overview of the group’s inspiration
- All levels of experience welcome
- Open discussion: What do members hope to gain from this group?
### 3. Ideas for Future Meetups
- Brainstorming session:
- Sharing and feedback of written work
- Group reads of short stories
- Vote or prioritize top 2–3 ideas for next meetings
### 4. Optional Sharing Session
- Members may share:
- A short excerpt of their writing
- A writing prompt or idea they’re excited about
- A sci-fi concept they’d love to explore
### 5. Wrap-Up & Next Steps
- Discuss:
- Date/time for the next meeting
- Format or theme for the next session
- Share group contact info or online space (e.g., Meetup page, email)
### Optional: Post-Meeting Social (Flexible)
- Grab a bite or drink nearby for informal conversation and connection
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Rules for library meeting spaces: MeetingSpaces_Policy.pdf
Business Commons site: Business & Technology Room · MPL- This meeting is not sponsored or endorsed by the Milwaukee Public Library.
- Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request. Contact the City of Milwaukee ADA Coordinator, 414-286-3475 or adacoordinator@milwaukee.gov no later than seventy-two (72) hours before the scheduled event.