Writing about the end of civilisation as we know it is never fun. Consequently, dystopian and post-apocalyptic writers aren't generally a cheery bunch.
But it has to be done.
Industrial capitalism has had a good run, but it's into its last 100 years, at best. Although the gadgets and fast-paced lifestyle are entertaining for those who can afford it, it has been hard on those at the bottom of the pile, like most of the people in the world. And with oil, gas and even coal getting shorter in supply it's not going to be a system that can last forever. Especially when it is steered by giant corporations which only look six months ahead.
So it is doomed and will unravel at some point. The writer's job is to suggest this, indicate the possibility of some other system, even though capitalism is still rolling on as if it will last forever.
Of course, the worry is that whatever comes next will be even worse, which is why the books are often so dismal. And they also highlight what is good or bad at the moment in the present world. The future can be a cipher for our current predicaments.
But whichever way you look at it, documenting the unravelling of current or future civilisation is somewhat depressing.
Still, who said writing was fun?
But it has to be done.
Industrial capitalism has had a good run, but it's into its last 100 years, at best. Although the gadgets and fast-paced lifestyle are entertaining for those who can afford it, it has been hard on those at the bottom of the pile, like most of the people in the world. And with oil, gas and even coal getting shorter in supply it's not going to be a system that can last forever. Especially when it is steered by giant corporations which only look six months ahead.
So it is doomed and will unravel at some point. The writer's job is to suggest this, indicate the possibility of some other system, even though capitalism is still rolling on as if it will last forever.
Of course, the worry is that whatever comes next will be even worse, which is why the books are often so dismal. And they also highlight what is good or bad at the moment in the present world. The future can be a cipher for our current predicaments.
But whichever way you look at it, documenting the unravelling of current or future civilisation is somewhat depressing.
Still, who said writing was fun?