Author Dr. Greg Buchanan explores the complex relationship between fiction and escapism in this BBC Radio 4 feature. Drawing on examples from his own writing, he argues that rather than simply providing an escape, fiction invites a form of imaginative play that can profoundly impact our real-world ethics.

Greg discusses novels like Nabokov's Pale Fire that directly implicate the reader, forcing them to make choices that alter the narrative. He also cites examples from video games where player decisions shape characters' fates. While fiction may allow temporary escape from reality, truly immersive stories bring us right to the brink of difficult choices, urging us to reflect on who we want to be.