I have to admit, I've never been to a con and I don't know much Klingon,
though I did own a tribble once. (It has gone on to a better place). But
I will stand up in public and proudly declare myself a Star Trek fan, if
it comes to that. I care deeply about the war with the Dominion! :)
I understand and accept that Star Trek writing is not, generally, on par
with "better" science fiction, or serious literature in general. Let's
face it, Star Trek is entertainment, pop culture - see the pretty
explosions! There have been some very very good episodes (DS9's "Duet"
springs to mind), and a lot of very very bad ones (not naming any names).
The importance of Star Trek now, in my opinion, has less to do with its
actual success as entertainment and/or social commentary, than with its
status as a Cultural Phenomenon. Like the Romantic Poets' references to
Greek mythology - references any educated European would get - a reference
to Star Trek provides immediate understanding for the initiated. The Star
Trek fans club (speaking metaphorically here - not referring to any of
the literal clubs) is exclusive enough to make those in the know feel
special, yet inclusive enough that images, terms and stories taken from
Star Trek are useful in mass communications. "Beam me up Scotty" means
more than just the literal meaning of the words (which would be kind of
nonsensical) to just about everyone. (And yeah, I know those words were
never said on the show).
And I think Klingons are really cool.
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