Novels & Politics

Some fiction writers let their politics bleed into their stories. I don’t.

I have nothing against those that do. I simply don’t see the need to mix politics into my novels. It’s not necessary or relevant to the plots so I’m careful not to create characters that resemble our current politicians or their political leanings. Also, baking a political position into a novel is a good way to lose half of my potential readers.

Mostly, though, I am just tired and fatigued with all the political posturing and I know that a lot of my readers are too. My fiction is meant as an escape from everyday life and when I’m writing, I enjoy getting away from so much that is distressing in this world. I’m not looking to find another way to divide us or to create more angst for myself than I already have, which is significant.

So, I figure a little murder, kidnapping, nuclear missiles gone wild, and missing airliners mysteriously reappearing, are all good ways to find some comfort. Ironic, perhaps. I just want to entertain.