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Exploring the Fascination with Fantasy Literature in Politics and Tech

Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni, known for her conservative views, has a unique connection to fantasy literature. She founded a political conference named after a hero from a popular fantasy novel and even used to dress up as a hobbit. In 2023, she commissioned a museum exhibition dedicated to JRR Tolkien, showcasing her deep appreciation for the genre. Similarly, figures like tech billionaire Peter Thiel and US vice-president JD Vance have also expressed their admiration for fantasy authors like Tolkien and CS Lewis.

This shared fascination with fantasy literature raises questions about its appeal to right-wing individuals in politics and tech. Is there a deeper connection between fantasy and conservative ideologies, or is it merely a coincidence?

The Psychological Impact of Fantasy Literature

According to Salvatore Vassallo, a political science professor, Meloni’s interest in fantasy literature was more psychological than political. For her and others on the right, fantasy served as a form of escapism when they felt alienated from mainstream politics. It provided a safe space to explore values and ideas that were not socially acceptable.

While some themes in fantasy literature align with reactionary ideologies, such as hierarchical societies and traditional values, others challenge these notions by promoting inclusivity and heroism across racial lines. The genre’s focus on personal triumph and perseverance resonates with populist rhetoric, emphasizing the idea of overcoming adversity through individual agency.

The Appeal of Heroic Narratives

One key aspect of fantasy literature that appeals to right-wing populists is its emphasis on heroism and individual agency. These stories often depict individuals defying oppressive systems and prevailing against all odds, reinforcing the notion of personal empowerment and control over one’s destiny.

While fantasy may offer a sense of freedom and agency that modern society sometimes lacks, it also reflects a longing for a more simplistic and epic world where individual choices have a direct impact on society. This desire for control and power aligns with right-wing ideologies that seek to preserve traditional structures or dismantle them in favor of individual autonomy.

The Limits of Fantasy and the Importance of Balance

Despite the allure of fantastical narratives, fantasy literature also teaches valuable lessons about the limits of individual power and the importance of maintaining balance in society. Works like Ursula Le Guin’s Earthsea series emphasize the interconnectedness of people and nature, highlighting the need for cooperation and harmony.

As individuals like Meloni, Thiel, and Vance continue to draw inspiration from fantasy literature, they may benefit from reflecting on the deeper themes of these stories. Rather than seeking absolute power or control, they could learn valuable lessons about humility, balance, and the interconnectedness of all beings.

Overall, the intersection of fantasy literature with politics and tech reveals the complex relationship between imagination, ideology, and societal structures. By exploring the nuances of these connections, we can gain a deeper understanding of the role that fantasy plays in shaping our beliefs and actions.

martin.sandbu@ft.com