The Trouble with Fiction

In the Orthodox Church, we are encouraged to read the lives of the saints. We are encouraged to do so on the grounds of the benefit of a real life example to emulate. The high standard of the godly is worthy of our consideration.

On the other hand, the reading of fiction can be particularly dangerous. In the world of fiction, the author is god. He can create the world in any fashion he so desires. Any falsehood, perversion or fantasy can be reality. And for the undiscerning or unthinking reader, this can form the worldview in error. This is especially true with children. Disney has done a remarkable job forming the minds of children along pagan lines. The writer, acting as teacher, trains up generation after generation to think along particular lines. And for this, he will have to answer. Scripture warns us about being a teacher and being held to a higher degree of responsibility.

Obviously, this does not mean that the average individual is doomed to cerebral damage and deception if they read the latest novel by JK Rowling. I am talking about long term, worldview-forming influence. To immerse oneself in fantasy, in the long term, without regard to what is being said, is to open oneself up to deception. This type of influence is particularly dangerous because it comes across so innocently. The material is usually not sinful in and of itself, but it is damaging because it is false.

When I speak of the material being false I am not speaking of "there not really being orcs, trolls and pixies."  I believe that is pretty obvious. What I am talking about is the truth of the meaning behind the story, the truth of the worldview that holds the story up.

In very much the same way that our bodies are influenced by the food we eat, our souls are influenced by the things we experience through the senses.  The danger I am speaking of in regards to fictional books is also true of video games and movies.  The creative powers of the video game designer or the movie director is the same as the author.

So the point of all this?  Oversee what you and your children are reading. Don't assume that they will get it. Because they probably won't. And live out your faith with your children. This is the greatest way to lead and influence your children.