Cyberpunk is a literary genre that emerged in the 1980s and is characterized by a focus on advanced technology and the internet, often in a dystopian setting. It is heavily influenced by science fiction and film noir and typically features gritty, urban settings with characters who are often marginalized or outcasts. Primary examples of cyberpunk in literature include William Gibson’s novel Neuromancer and Stephenson’s novel Snow Crash. Films such as The Matrix, Johnny Mnemonic, and Blade Runner have helped define the cyberpunk aesthetic and genre ideals.

One of the key themes in cyberpunk literature is the relationship between humans and technology. This relationship can be seen in the way characters interact with advanced technology, such as cybernetically enhanced bodies and virtual reality. This technology shapes their lives and experiences. Additionally, cyberpunk often explores the idea of a future where the lines between the physical and digital worlds are blurred, and the internet has become a dominant force in society. In many cyberpunk works, characters live separate lives in reality and cyberspace.

Cyberpunk has had a significant impact on popular culture, influencing a wide range of media including films, television, and video games.