Image by Alexey Hulsov from Pixabay
The year 2020 has proven to be a challenge for all countries all over the world. I don’t think there is a corner of the globe untouched by this awful virus, which has undoubtedly been the main focus of media attention for the majority of the year. As a writer, the events of the year can influence our writing.
The question here is, should we or should we not include the Covid-19 pandemic as part of the plot when writing?
The answer to the question depends on what an individual’s beliefs are, and whether they believe it will help them to achieve their goal. As part of my writing journey, I have joined various social media groups for advice and support from fellow writers. When scrolling through the many posts throughout these groups, I have noticed members saying they are including it, or have announced publication of their book which is based on the pandemic.
I am not in a position to frown upon what other writers do, but when I write it is my intention to ignore all aspects of Covid-19, lockdown and how it has affected our lives and the economy. We are inundated with news updates of figures for positive tests, deaths, unemployment and other facts surrounding the topic; so much so at times I tend to switch off from the news. Due to filming and influence of the pandemic on day to day life, TV soaps can’t provide a true escape. I don’t watch TV soaps anymore (Not because of the pandemic, I stopped a long time ago), but when flicking through channels I can see the actors with masks on, putting them on, taking them off. It’s a little reminder to the reality of 2020.
To anyone who reads my work, I wish for them to have an escape from any worries they have.
Worries of money, family safety and health, anything they have on their mind and that includes, but is not restricted to, any consequences due to the Covid-19 pandemic. People read to learn or read for the sheer pleasure of it, and as I writer I firmly believe that providing an alternate life to involve in is the key. Everyone needs a feel good laugh at a funny part in a book, or the weight on your shoulders lifted from not thinking about something that is troubling you. An escape from reality, and a resulting positive impact from reading, that is my aim with any of my work.
As an answer the question, Covid-19 to plot or not to plot? It is anyone’s choice, but I will not plot it into my storyline.
I look forward to any comments you wish to share on social media.
