No one can deny that the world is in quite a precarious place at the moment. We are still bouncing back from the devastating effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. The world is currently witnessing two wars that have devastated millions of lives and caused a global outrage. People on both sides of the argument are constantly fighting for their governments to do more. All while we are facing a cost of living crisis that is putting a massive strain on families everywhere.

But, as bleak as it may seem, things aren’t hopeless. People are proving time and time again that the human spirit is indomitable. And, as long as we work together and never stay silent, real change can be made. And one of the most powerful avenues for that change recently has been literature. But just how is literature helping to change the world?

Literature And War

This is never an easy subject to talk about. But it is an important one. We cannot ignore the realities of the global situation. No matter how much we might like to. But the images presented to us on the news and through social media are easily distorted and twisted to fit the agenda of whoever is presenting them. And it is rare to get a true insight into the thoughts and feelings of those suffering the most.

But literature is perhaps the most powerful tool for getting across the harsh realities of life in these war zones. It is not a new thing to see citizens from war zones publishing accounts of their experience. One of the most powerful books I ever read was ‘Man’s Search For Meaning.’ A stark yet oddly uplifting account of some of the atrocities committed in the second World War.

A lot of these books are often fictional in nature. But the stories and settings for these stories are ripped directly from reality. And it is often through the lens of fiction that we can learn the most about the horrors of war. There are hundreds of charities and publishing firms working to get books from active war zones into the hands of you and me. And the effect it is having cannot be overstated.

Literature And Creativity

A big part of what makes humanity so unique is the ability to create works of art. And literature is one of the oldest and most resilient forms of art out there. But lately it has become more necessary to keep the flame of creative literature alive. The world is facing a mental health crisis unlike any it has seen before. People need an escape from reality now more than ever.

Works of powerful fiction offer this escape. And over the last few years we have seen a huge boom in the fantasy literature market. Thanks to the growing success of franchises like DnD and The Witcher. The fantasy genre is reaching out from the page into nearly every other market. Just look at the candles for sale at candle lore. Each one is designed to create a fantasy atmosphere within your home. There are hundreds of companies like this. Taking inspiration from the pages of literature to help people find new ways to relax and build a sense of peace in their homes and minds.

The sense of escape people find within the pages of their favorite books has been proven to be extremely beneficial. We have always known that reading is a great way to learn and grow as a person. But beyond that studies have shown that reading can reduce your blood pressure and stress levels. As well as helping you sleep better. All of these things can have a direct impact on your mental health. Proving that reading is good for all aspects of your mind.

Literature And Health

In a more literal sense literature has also been used to help people better manage their mental and physical health. This year alone we have seen a huge wave of amazing self-help and fitness books hit the shelves that have helped countless people improve their life.

In the 50s and 60s we saw a huge wave of fad diet books published that caused a lot of damage. But these days social media is helping to quell the spread of misinformation and highlight which books are actually worth reading. Apps like TikTok and Instagram have a huge book culture.

The impact social media has had on the world of literature is huge. Not only in the sense that it allows people to help others find the best books to read. But it also helps bring people together and connect with like minded people. And this has a huge impact on the physical and mental wellbeing of avid readers.

Anthony

Writing about politics and finances.