Hi Robyn, I agree with most of what you have written wholeheartedly and unfortunately disheartedly, such are the times. However your preference for non-fiction implies a disservice to the great works of fiction that, through the metaphor of reader identification and considered thought, enhances society equally to the works of non-fiction. Where would we be without, 1984, To Kill a Mocking Bird, War and Peace, the Bible any number of parables, all are fictions that guide thought and conversation equally to the works of Steven Hawkins. The tragedy, as you rightly identify, lies in the superficial dialogue we employ because we believe it is vital to go for the next shiny object. We are anchovies of focus. Ypiours is an astute and worthy reply. Cheers. Kevin