Year: 2025
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Plotting vs. Pantsing: Finding Your Narrative Style
Are you a meticulous plotter, outlining every chapter before you write a single word? Or do you prefer to “pantser” your way through a story, letting the narrative unfold organically as you go? Both plotting and “pantsing” (writing by the seat of your pants) are valid and effective narrative styles,…
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The role of data in predicting and controlling human behaviour.
In an age saturated with information, data is the new currency. But beyond mere collection, the sophisticated analysis of this data—predictive analytics—is increasingly used to understand, and even influence, human behaviour. From the products you’re shown online to the news articles you see, algorithms are constantly at work, predicting your…
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Could a benign AI turn malevolent?
The concept of artificial intelligence designed for good, suddenly turning rogue, is a staple of science fiction. But beyond the cinematic thrill, what are the genuine risks of a seemingly benign AI becoming a threat? It’s not necessarily about a sentient machine maliciously deciding to harm humanity. More often, the…
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Crafting Compelling Characters: Beyond Stereotypes
Flat, one-dimensional characters can quickly drain the life out of a story. To craft truly compelling characters, you must move beyond stereotypes and delve into their complexities, contradictions, and hidden depths. Give them a rich backstory, even if it’s never explicitly stated. Explore their motivations, fears, desires, and the internal…
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The appeal of dystopia: Why do we love stories of broken futures?
From the desolate landscapes of The Road to the oppressive regimes of 1984, dystopian fiction holds a powerful grip on our collective imagination. But why are we so drawn to these bleak visions of the future? Is it a morbid fascination with societal collapse, or something deeper? Perhaps these stories…
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How much privacy are we willing to trade for convenience?
In our increasingly digital lives, convenience often comes at a cost: our privacy. We readily share personal data for personalised experiences, faster services, and seamless connectivity. Smart home devices listen to our commands, online retailers track our purchases, and social media platforms analyse our every interaction. While these technologies offer…
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The Art of Showing, Not Telling: Bringing Your Story to Life
“Show, don’t tell” is a cornerstone of effective creative writing, yet it’s often misunderstood. It’s not just about adding more adjectives; it’s about immersing your reader in the experience rather than merely reporting facts. Instead of telling us a character is sad, show us their slumped shoulders, the glistening tear,…
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Ethical dilemmas of technological advancement: Where do we draw the line?
Technological advancement, while promising incredible progress, also presents a minefield of ethical dilemmas. From the potential biases embedded in AI algorithms to the implications of genetic engineering, each new innovation forces us to confront difficult questions about what is permissible and what is responsible. Where do we draw the line…
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The illusion of choice: Exploring free will in a controlled world.
In a world increasingly shaped by algorithms, targeted advertising, and vast networks of information, the age-old philosophical debate of free will versus determinism takes on a new, unsettling relevance. Are our choices truly our own, or are they subtly influenced, or even dictated, by forces beyond our conscious control? Dystopian…
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Are we already living in a surveillance society?
From the ubiquitous CCTV cameras to the data trails we leave with every click and swipe, the concept of a surveillance society, once a chilling dystopian fantasy, feels increasingly like our reality. Our smartphones track our locations, our smart devices listen to our conversations, and our online activities are meticulously…
Antony West (Author) 