Podcast discussing the science fiction noir genre.

Initial focus is the 2026 release of Lawrence Smiths Science Fiction Noir "Aubrey and the Archive.

In the aftermath of ecological collapse and social fragmentation, civilization survives inside chemically managed Safe Zones where memory itself has become unstable.

Aubrey has spent ten years imprisoned in a decaying system designed not to preserve humanity, but to anesthetize it. When fragments of forbidden data begin surfacing from a mysterious structure known only as the Archive, she is drawn into a hidden network of corrupted histories, engineered emotional control, and manufactured reality.

As toxic landscapes spread beyond the protected corridors of the state, Aubrey discovers that the greatest threat facing humanity may not be extinction — but the quiet erasure of truth itself.

Blending literary dystopia, science noir, psychological science fiction, and ecological collapse fiction, Aubrey and the Archive explores surveillance, emotional exhaustion, memory manipulation, and the spiritual decay of late-stage civilization.

Land Acknowledgement

As we gather on these lands, we are called in solidarity with Indigenous people to honour and respect the four directions, as well as the lands, waters, plants, animals and ancestors that walked before us. As settlers, we recognize the rich historical and modern traditions of the many First Nations, Métis and Inuit people who have contributed to the success and prosperity of Canada.

In particular, we acknowledge that we are on the traditional territories of the Anishinabek Nation: the People of the Three Fires known as the Ojibwe, Odawa and Pottawatomie Nations. We give thanks to the Saugeen First Nation, and the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, known collectively as the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, as the traditional keepers of this land.

Together we strive towards truth, reconciliation, and the ongoing healing of our relationship through consultation, education and learning.