To Dystope or Not to Dystope

The global sweep of the coronavirus has been a siren call for dystopian writers. We’ve thought about dozens of ways the world would end, how we would react, and whether society would stand or fall. I’m not saying the spread of the coronavirus will cause any of that to happen. I’m saying that the virus, and our reaction to it, is a reminder that the beautiful, flawed, complex society we’ve built is resilient and powerful—but not invincible.

Everyone acts in a manner they believe is smart, effective, and (for the most part) helps more than harms. If they operate on flawed information, though, their efforts won’t help. I read an email that said gargling warm water would fight the virus. Anyone who believes that, though, is fooling themselves.

The virus threatens not only lives but livelihoods, relationships, and trust in what we’ve built. This is a time where leaders should step up in a way that best helps everyone without fear of politics or perception. If responded to quickly, this threat will recede quickly.

It may already be too late, though. Thousands may die, with many more hurt both physically and/or financially.

Speaking of being hurt, I’m concerned this virus may permanently scar us. Future events where we gather—concerts and football games, churches and rallies and Broadway shows—may become tainted with memories of this time, making people become withdrawn and suspicious. I was watching a taped recording of The Voice and flinched when I saw the stands filled with people clapping and cheering. Humans are social creatures. Taking away shared experiences could give rise to more xenophobia, to hatred and paranoia—and depression. There is already concern of the toll our battle against the coronavirus will take on those who already struggle with depression.

Just as those with physical disabilities need help, so do those with mental and psychological challenges. We’re supposed to limit our proximity to each other, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be there. Reach out not only to those who are struggling but to the people who occupy your life. Not only will you help them, you’ll give yourself strength.

Dystopian writers try to depict the end of the world, but one of the biggest challenges is to do this without losing sight of those living in that world. Many times, the story seems too big to focus on the flawed, petty, well-meaning creatures who experience the end. But characters are how we as readers relate to that world—and people are what make life worth living. Don’t lose sight of those who occupy your life. Help out when you can. Support our leaders. Listen to medical and scientific experts—and do what they say. Most importantly, remember that we are in this together. If we are smart, diligent, and determined, we will get through this. And who knows? We might get some really good dystopian stories out of this….but hopefully none about deadly viruses. I think we’ve had our fill.