Speaking generally, there are three kinds of writers of fiction. One is just trying to divert you, entertain you, and get paid for it. An example might be Stephen King.

The second is trying to impart wisdom to you, often merely articulating concepts in your head already there that you could not put words to, to open your mind. An example might be Tolstoy, or for some(not me, but I respect many love him) David Foster Wallace, or many more.

Then there is a third kind, who is simply trying to rape and impregnate your brain and along the way steal all you have. And examples of those would be Ayn Rand or L. Ron Hubbard. They are the ones to be dreaded.

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John Linton Roberson is quite sure he's correct. Visit him at jlroberson.org.