The Power of Fiction
Will Self reflects on the power of our relationship with fictional characters. 'People need people whose lives can be seen to follow a dramatic arc.'.
Will Self reflects on the power of our relationship with fictional characters. "People need people whose lives can be seen to follow a dramatic arc, so that no matter what trials they encounter, the people who survey them can be reassured that when the light begins to fade, these people - to whose frail psyches we've had privileged access - will at least feel it's all meant something."
Producer: Sheila Cook.
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A Point of View: Why do people relate to fictional characters?
Despite having their lives determined by authors, fictional characters are often portrayed as free agents - masters of their own destinies. Maybe that's why readers like them so much, says the novelist Will Self.
Credits
| Role | Contributor |
|---|---|
| Presenter | Will Self |
| Producer | Sheila Cook |
Broadcasts
- Fri 20 Feb 201520:50BBC Radio 4
- Sun 22 Feb 201508:48BBC Radio 4
- Sun 22 Feb 201523:50BBC Radio 4 FM
Podcast
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A Point of View
A weekly reflection on a topical issue.
