In the very first episode of the Better Writer Podcast, I’m asking one very important question: Does writing fiction matter?

When AI has shown up to replace us and the world feels like it’s always in a state of crisis does it still make sense to sit down and write your stories?

I believe it is. Here’s why.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Subscribe to the Better Writer Weekly newsletter here
• Learn more about my work here
• Read my blog post on harmful worldbuilding tropes here
• Check out the sources that I consulted in putting together this show:
  • Article: Does reading fiction make us better people?
  • Study: How Does Fiction Reading Influence Empathy? An Experimental Investigation on the Role of Emotional Transportation
  • Study: Bookworms versus nerds: Exposure to fiction versus non-fiction, divergent associations with social ability, and the simulation of fictional social worlds
  • Article: Why Sharing Stories Brings People Together
  • Article: Paul Slovic observes the ‘psychic numbing’ of COVID-19
  • Article: Why Your Brain Can’t Empathize with Large Tragedies
  • Books Mentioned (affiliate links):
    • Wired for Story
    • The Well of Tears
    • The Duke and I (Bridgerton #1)

Key Takeaways:

• Writing is essential even in a world dominated by AI.
• Diverse perspectives in literature are crucial for changing our world for the better - even if we don't see results right away.
• Fiction is an amazing coping mechanism and your book could be the thing that gets someone through the toughest part of their life.
• Stories can help readers navigate difficult emotions and experiences in a safe way that doesn't trigger the defensiveness that can keep people from connecting in real life.
• Writing can also empower you whether it's just in telling a story that matters to you or in accomplishing a difficult goal.

For a full transcript of the episode, please visit oliviahelpswriters.com/bwp/1