WillQuoteASOIAF

What's it like being a woman in Science Fiction? Do you think the way women are represented in scifi and fantasy has improved since you started? What would you change about female representation in these genres these days, if you could?

Thanks for the AMA!

As a 'more-or-less' Muslim, I often wonder whether faith for others is always a black or white thing. My religious identity is a lot more fluid .. I'm an atheist some days and a devout (although still non-practicing) Muslim the next.

Am I just weak? Is this me not being able to commit or can any of you relate? What was your 'coming out' story, as it were?

I haven't, but I will now. Thanks for the recommendation!

I am the same; a drinking, pork-eating, non-praying, gay-loving Muslim, but a Muslim nonetheless.

I believe in a God. I believe in the Prophet. I believe in the Day of Judgment.

I believe my faith makes me a better person. I do not believe everyone needs religion to be good. But I believe I do.

SIR PATRICK! Thanks for this! A tough question, but I hope you answer:

There was a controversy recently when you announced you, as a white man, would play Othello on stage. You responded by saying:

‘In the big picture, everyone should be able to play anything and I am against embargoes on actors playing roles that differ from their own ethnicity or gender. I am in favour of as much diversity as possible because it’s art — it’s not politics, it’s not government, it’s creativity'.

It's a beautiful thought, but I do think representation is important, and 'racebending' is problematic. I'm a writer and for a long time all my stories had 'white people names' because I didn't realize people with names like mine could be a part of stories too.

I understand if you think it shouldn't be, but do you not think that art is inherently political?

Anyway, you're brilliant and your work against domestic abuse in particular is extremely inspiring. Hope you have a great day!