In the ever-evolving landscape of literature, incorporating current events into fiction offers a unique way to enrich storytelling. It allows authors to create narratives that resonate deeply with readers by weaving in elements of the world they live in. In this post, I’ll explore why and how current events can enhance fiction, using my upcoming novel Breaking The Ice by my pen name Tessa Vidal as a case study.
Why Incorporate Current Events?
Integrating current events into fiction isn’t just about mirroring reality; it’s about creating stories that feel immediate and relevant. By grounding your narrative in real-world events, you can engage readers on a more profound level, sparking conversations and connections that go beyond the page.
Be Careful!
The one real drawback to incorporating current events into a story is you end up dating yourself, which can shorten the shelf-life of your book. Because of this you should always be careful to pick current events that are also evergreen topics. For example, in my current work in progress I’m using a political setting without engaging in specific events that happened in real life. Politics is evergreen, meaning it’s almost always current, but if I wrote about the actual election of 2024 between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, the book would be dated almost immediately after the conclusion of the presidential race.
Balancing Accuracy and Creativity
While using current events can add depth to your story, it’s crucial to balance accuracy with creativity. Extensive research is essential to ensure a respectful and accurate portrayal. However, fiction allows for flexibility—use real events as a backdrop while crafting fictional elements to suit your narrative.
Crafting Characters and Plotlines
Current events can significantly influence character development and plot progression. Characters’ reactions to these events can reflect real-world perspectives and add layers of authenticity to their motivations and conflicts. For example, in Breaking The Ice, the fictional “Vision 2025 Coalition” is inspired by Project 2025, highlighting the tensions surrounding environmental policies. The antagonist, Victor Blackwood, embodies the morally ambiguous tactics often seen in contemporary politics, drawing loose inspiration from figures like Roger Stone.
Case Study: Breaking The Ice
In Breaking The Ice, the “Vision 2025 Coalition” is a critical plot device. This fictional organization is modeled after Project 2025, a real-world initiative with controversial implications. By adapting this concept, I’ve created a compelling antagonist, Victor Blackwood, whose lobbying efforts for off-shore drilling present a formidable challenge for the protagonist, Representative Ellie Thompson.
Victor’s character is loosely based on Donald Trump ally Roger Stone, reflecting the cunning and controversial nature of some political figures. His blackmail tactics—using Ellie’s secret as leverage—introduce a moral dilemma that deepens the story’s conflict. This approach not only provides a gripping narrative but also mirrors real-world political drama, enhancing the story’s relevance and impact.
Enhancing Reader Engagement
By incorporating current events, you invite readers to engage with your story on a personal level. It stimulates discussion and encourages readers to reflect on contemporary issues through the lens of fiction. This connection can make your story more impactful and memorable.
Conclusion
Incorporating current events into fiction offers a powerful tool for creating engaging, relevant, and thought-provoking narratives. By blending real-world elements with creative storytelling, you can craft stories that resonate deeply with readers and spark meaningful conversations. I encourage fellow writers to explore this approach, balancing creativity with reality to enhance their storytelling.
Have you used current events in your writing? If you’re not a writer, are you ever drawn to books about current events? If so, share your experience in the comments below. Happy Reading!
Breaking The Ice is now available for preorder exclusively on Amazon.
Ian O. Lewis and Luke Jameson 