SF&F Question: are the non-Frank Herbert DUNE novels canon?

The Basics Dune is a 1965 science fiction novel written by Frank Herbert (1920-86). It is the biggest-selling science fiction novel of all time, having sold over 20 million copies. Before his death i…

SF&F Questions: Did Deep Space Nine rip off Babylon 5?

In our latest SF&F Question we address one of the biggest controversies in the history of science fiction television: did Star Trek: Deep Space Nine rip off its contemporary and "rival"…

SF&F Questions: Do balrogs have wings?

In this article I will examine the single most controversial mystery that J.R.R. Tolkien left unresolved in his Middle-earth legendarium, namely... Do balrogs have wings? In the first book of The Lor…

SF&F Questions: What is Tannhauser Gate?

In the first of an occasional series, we address long-standing questions and mysteries from different science fiction and fantasy franchises. First up is a long-standing question from Ridley Scott…