I read quite a lot, however I’ve stopped reading murder mysteries that fiction writers most favour. It's as if murder is commonplace and the criminal fraternity represents everyday life. Reading alternative subjects leaves me with a more peaceful mind. I'd never read any of Nevil Shute's books until recently, but appreciate the different pace of life and values as demonstrated in his writing. His books of the 1940’s and 50’s clearly describe times when innocence, charm and good manners overcame evil. Another writer I've discovered is Man Booker prize winner Julian Barnes. His novel that I particularly enjoyed was Arthur and George. Portraying the interlinking lives of Arthur Conan Doyle and George Edalji at the turn of the 20th century, he draws the reader into an intriguing true account of how life was in those times.
Violence in films, books and video games concerns me. I wonder whether a young mind can distinguish between good and evil. When killing becomes commonplace, does it appear acceptable? Even an adult can be influenced by a regular input of crime and a child's mind is so much more easily manipulated. Surely a constant portrayal of a mean, savage society is not to be condoned and will, in all probability, affect children as they turn into adults.
On the other hand, demonstrating the more decent side of life and respect for fellow men is something that would benefit society. Living together peacefully in a fragile world has become even more important now that the consequences of an action in one country can instantly reverberate around the globe. It's too easy to cause harm and exert selfishness, not caring for those around us. How the world could change if we condemned the portrayal of violence and put our efforts into showing a caring side and displaying happiness as a preferred emotion.