Literary Culture

» COdell - Contemporary Subjects/Literary Takes

Hi Derek, From what I've read about your book, you tackle the contemporary subject of reality television. Some writers, mainy in literary circles don't like to refer to contemporary issues and state their concern for dating their work. While you're working in the Thriller area, do you see this as a problem in mainstream publishing? Should it be considered "dated" or relevant?
~Carol

-- posted by COdell

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» cherylktardif - Contemporary Subjects/Literary Takes

In response to Contemporary Subjects/Literary Takes posted by COdell:

Although Derek has not responded with his opinion yet, I felt compelled to add my own. I believe that by adding contemporary issues, authors are reaching a wider audience because people can relate to these issues. Ten years from now, people will still relate to things like reality TV, date rape drugs or assisted suicide, just perhaps in a different way, depending on current fads and laws.

By tackling a subject such as reality TV, Derek Armstrong has brought an interesting subject to the forefront. Do game shows sometimes take things too far? Is there value in them besides mindless entertainment?

I realize the draw to reality TV shows may and probably will dwindle with time, but who's to say when that will be. Five years, ten...fifteen. In the meantime, Armstrong's The Game is a smart, savy stab at reality TV. It's a thriller that will appeal to those who love AND those who hate game shows.

~Cheryl Kaye Tardif, author of The River, Divine Intervention and Whale Song (2007 Kunati Books)
http://www.cherylktardif.com
http://www.kunati.com/catalog_whale_song

-- posted by cherylktardif

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