This is one of my favourite episodes even though your discussion meanders away from the purely writing related topics. It is a sincere invitation to an open dialogue and communication that would enable us all to view issues from different perspectives. I agree with you that it is the writers' duty to reveal and respond to the truth and write from an authentic place within themselves. Writers have always used their pens to unmask social evils and criticize abuses of power etc. That is the role of art. I am not very political, but still hold some strong views. When you mentioned a high suicide rate in Denmark, I remembered a Danish friend telling me about it also and wondering how at the same time his country could be pronounced one of the happiest given the high suicide rate. As you piqued my interest, I looked up the 2019 report on highest suicide rates and the USA ranks 27th and Dnk 45th. Canada ranks about 47th. There is no perfect country as you sa, but because I am ideologically inclined toward democratic socialism, I like the idea of a society where education, child care, health care are free, and nursing homes, like in Dnk are heavily subsidized by the state. I also support strict gun laws. One of Cnd values is universal health care so no one needs to worry if they will be able to afford a surgery if they need it. In Dnk, my friends told me taxes are high, but so are salaries. One friend has a mom in a nursing home and says she is very happy with the care provided. You make many valid and excellent points and I wish people engaged more in candid dialogues and tried to find grounds of common understanding. Great show, Mark. An hour and 40 min just flew by. I did not find anything controversial in what you said. J Begovic

The issues, I'm glad you touched on this when it comes to writing and communication. Too much anymore, books are being banned and authors stripped of prizes and awards because they write on these things. It may be bold on my part, but the injustice of things such as racism and sexism need to be out there. Ignoring issues will not make them go away. As writers it is important to speak out on these things. Even more importantly, to educate ourselves on these matters.

Most comments I have got so far from a show. Wish more could be on here but most use other platforms than Podbean. I could have a show ( and will) just on the comments. Q&A #2 coming in Dec.