A podcast in association with BeingSociety.com, in which Clare Coombe and Masha Yakovleva explore the politics, ethics, and societal visions of dystopian tv, film, and literature.
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Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: How to Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut Fantasy, Science Fiction, or Dystopian Novel
Heather Davis, Writing Coach, Book Coach, and Developmental Editor
Welcome to the Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple Podcast! The show that’s all about how to brainstorm, write, edit, publish, and sell a powerful speculative fiction novel… and maybe just change the world too. I'm your host, Heather Davis. I’m a seasoned book coach, developmental editor, and fellow storyteller. In my work with writers, I always see the same problems and roadblocks standing in their way and preventing them from achieving their dream of becoming a published author. So it’ ...
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Flow (Our 40th Episode!)
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1:08:17In this milestone 40th episode, Clare and Masha are discussing the visually-stunning Oscar-winner of 2024, Flow. Despite this animation having no dialogue and minimal explicit narrative, we follow the travels of the Cat and their rag-tag bag of animal companions to see what they might tell us about survival, the climate crisis, found-family, and mu…
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Writing with ADHD can feel like chaos — but it doesn’t have to. In this episode, I sit down with book coach and author Nicole Bross to explore brain-friendly strategies that help neurodiverse writers focus, follow through, and finally finish their drafts. You’ll learn how to design a writing process that fits your brain instead of fighting against …
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In Episode 39 of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Clare and Masha delve into the supposedly-fair society of Arcadia, the Dutch-Belgian series from Walter Presents. Our discussion looks at the flaws with the score-based system of citizenship in the show, and how it reflects ideas around meritocracy, with reference to Michael Sand…
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Feedback can transform your writing — or completely derail your confidence — depending on how you understand it. In this episode, Heather breaks down the four types of writing feedback every author needs to know (and only one that truly helps you improve). You’ll learn how to tell the difference between feedback that leaves you spinning your wheels…
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The Pod Generation
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1:11:42This episode we are exploring the world of The Pod Generation, a 2023 film about artificial wombs. CW: this episode includes discussion of death-in-pregnancy and suicide. Inspired by the discussion surrounding the ultimately-fake news reports that a Chinese company had developed a robot with a uterus, we look at the pros and cons of such a technolo…
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Is your story built on a rock-solid foundation—or is it wobbling under the weight of weak structure, thin characters, or unclear purpose? In this episode of Speculative Fiction Made Simple, I break down the four essential elements every novel must have to truly resonate with readers, hook agents, and stand out in today’s crowded market. 💡 Spoiler: …
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In episode 37 of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Clare and Masha are delving into the 1953 novel Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. We start looking at censorship and book-banning, including the worrying spread of pressure-groups from the US to the UK. We consider Bradbury's presentation of books as symbols for free-thinking and i…
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Dune (Parts 1&2)
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1:05:46Episode 36 takes us to the desert planet of Arrakis for our discussion of Dune, with particular reference to the 2021/2024 films as well as Frank Herbert's books. Our themes centre on the depiction of colonial power and imperialism, with particular reference to messiah figures, the 'white saviour', and religious messaging for political gain. We als…
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👉 Click here to grab your free ticket to the WorldShift: Speculative Fiction Writers’ Summit and hear Lisa Cron’s summit presentation—plus 30+ other craft-deep sessions from top speculative fiction coaches, authors, and industry pros. Most of what you’ve been taught about writing is wrong. At least, that’s what bestselling author and story coach Li…
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Snowpiercer
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1:23:07Episode 35 centres on the 2013 film Snowpiercer, another Bong Joon Ho film to follow Mickey 17, with some reference to the 2020 4-season show. We discuss the context of hubristic attempts to maintain global capitalism while preventing global heating, and compare the life-raft train with other post-apocalyptic sanctuaries. We look at the depiction o…
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Writing An Identity Not Your Own With Alex Temblador | Episode 35
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1:06:41👉 Click here to grab your free ticket to the WorldShift: Speculative Fiction Writers’ Summit and hear Alex Temblador’s summit presentation—plus 30+ other craft-deep sessions from top speculative fiction coaches, authors, and industry pros. Worried you’ll get it wrong when writing a character whose identity isn’t your own—and that you’ll hurt someon…
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Mickey 17
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1:15:33In episode 34 of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Clare and Masha discuss the 2024 Bong Joon Ho film, Mickey 17. Building on our conversation about Pantheon in episode 33, we discuss the science and ethics of cloning, and the nature of personhood and consciousness. We look at the film's depiction of colonialism, late-stage capit…
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Pantheon
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1:03:10This episode of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs is discussing the Netflix animated sci-fi series Pantheon. This fantastic and somewhat neglected show is well worth a watch, with its fascinating exploration of Uploaded Intelligence, in which human brains are transferred to the Cloud as digital data. In our analysis, we consider t…
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Minority Report
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1:04:15In this fortnight's episode of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Clare and Masha are discussing the 2002 film Minority Report, with reference to the Philip K Dick short story on which it was based. We chose to return to this particular film in response to the recent news of the UK's (since renamed) 'Homicide Prediction Programme'…
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V for Vendetta
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1:17:09In our 31st episode of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs we return to the 2006 classic dystopian film, V for Vendetta, directed by the Wachowskis and based on Alan Moore's graphic novel. We explore the film's depiction of the rise of Fascism in the form of Sutler's Norsefire party, elected and granted authoritarian powers in respo…
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So many writers dream of getting a traditional book deal—but the process to get there can feel confusing, overwhelming, and totally out of reach. In this episode, I’m giving you a bird’s-eye view of the entire traditional publishing journey—from that first spark of a novel idea to the moment you finally see your book on the shelf. We’ll talk about …
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Severance
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1:11:46In Episode 30, Masha and Clare are talking about the mysterious and important show that is Severance. While not providing any answers to the many questions posed by the show's complex narrative, we do our best to unpick the ethical implications of the premise: what if a brain-chip could offer the ultimate work-life balance? As well as discussing id…
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In Episode 29 of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Masha and Clare are discussing the 2011 film In Time, and its concept of 'Darwinian Capitalism'. We look at the metaphor of 'time is money' as made literal in the film. We look at the nature of wealth disparity and how wealth redistribution functions as a step within systemic cha…
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Wicked
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1:11:40Masha and Clare are back with Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, and our new season kicks off with an episode on Wicked, specifically the 2024 film, with reference to the current political situation in the USA and UK. In this episode, we discuss the eradication of the Animals as a metaphor for marginalized peoples. We explore the …
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Fix Your Novel with the Save the Cat Blueprint (Act 3) | Writing Tips & Techniques | Episode 33
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How do you write an ending so compelling that readers not only finish your book but immediately tell their friends, “You HAVE to read this”? Well, that’s a big question—but one thing’s for sure: a strong story structure is essential. In this episode, we’re tackling Act 3 of the Save the Cat story structure framework. I’ll break down how to craft a …
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Ask Me Anything Thursdays: Why are agents rejecting my novel? | Writing Techniques & Tips | Episode 32
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Are you sending out queries but only getting form rejections—or worse, no responses at all? Maybe you're receiving personalized rejections that praise your concept but still pass on your book? If you’re struggling to understand why agents aren’t biting, this episode is for you. In today’s Ask Me Anything Thursday, I’ll break down the biggest reason…
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Fix Your Novel with the Save the Cat Blueprint (Act 2) | Writing Tips & Techniques | Episode 31
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Does your novel feel have a saggy middle? Does it just meander around without a lot of momentum? In this episode, I’ll walk you through Act 2 of the Save the Cat story structure—a simple, effective tool to shape your novel into a story readers can’t put down. Learn how this flexible plotting method can keep your story on track while leaving plenty …
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Ask Me Anything Thursdays: Can I write a dual Point of View novel using a mixed POV structure? | Writing Techniques & Tips | Episode 30
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Ask Me Anything Thursdays: Can I Mix POV Styles in a Dual POV Novel? Have you ever wondered if you can write a dual POV novel where one protagonist is in first person and the other is in third? In this episode, I answer this question from fantasy writer Becca and break down when and how this technique can work beautifully in speculative fiction. Wh…
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Fix Your Novel with the Save the Cat Blueprint (Act 1) | Writing Tips & Techniques | Episode 29
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Does your novel feel like it’s wandering aimlessly, struggling to find direction? In this episode, I’ll walk you through the first five beats of the Save the Cat story structure—a simple, effective tool to shape your novel into a story readers can’t put down. Learn how this flexible plotting method can keep your story on track while leaving plenty …
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Ask Me Anything Thursdays: How Do I Make Readers Love My Protagonist? | Writing Techniques & Tips | Episode 28
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Ask Me Anything Thursdays answering the podcasting question "How do I make sure my protagonist is lovable?" Are you struggling to create a protagonist readers truly care about? In this episode, I share four actionable strategies to help you craft a dynamic, relatable protagonist readers won’t forget. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why connectin…
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Are you looking to level up your writing in 2025? In this episode, I dive into three incredibly valuable ways you can improve your writing, get answers to your important writing questions, and get valuable feedback on your work for FREE. Tune in to learn how to navigate your writing challenges and set yourself up for success in 2025! This episode w…
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In Episode 27 of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Masha and Clare discuss the 1976 film Logan's Run, and its themes of aging, societal control, hedonism, AI, and the nature of freedom. We draw contrasts with other depictions of the allegory of Plato's cave, the apparent rejection of 1960s culture in favour of more conservative v…
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Idiocracy
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1:03:50In this post-US election episode, Clare Coombe and Masha Yakovleva are talking about the 2006 Mike Judge comedy film, Idiocracy, called by some 'a documentary' and others (ie. Masha) 'the worst film I've ever seen'. This film imagines a future in which intelligence has been bred out of the human race, with chaotic social and political consequences.…
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American Psycho
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1:02:38In our Halloween special, and 25th episode, Clare and Masha are discussing the 2000 film American Psycho and the 1991 novel by Brett Easton Ellis on which it was based. In our analysis, we approach American Psycho as a dystopia in which Patrick Bateman represents the everyman of 1980s Wall Street, and his construction of his identity is mimetic and…
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Society of the Snow
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1:08:48In Episode 24 of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Clare Coombe and Masha Yakovleva are discussing Society of the Snow [La Sociedad de la Nieve], the 2023 film dramatizing the events of the Uruguayan plane crash of 1972 and the subsequent survival of 18 victims in the Andes. We also make comparisons with the 1993 film Alive. Our …
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The End We Start From
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1:09:39In Episode 23 of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Clare Coombe and Masha Yakovleva are discussing the 2023 film, The End We Start From, starring Jodie Comer. Our discussion explores flooding and the climate crisis, and how prevalent these issues already are, especially in the global south, but also worsening in Europe and some p…
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Gattaca
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1:02:15In Episode 22, Clare and Masha are discussing the amazing 1997 film, Gattaca. In our conversation we look at the science and ethics of gene editing, including the advocacy for an update in the law to eliminate hereditary disease. We explore the fascinating theories of genetics and the impact on us of our DNA, with particular reference to Robert Plo…
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6 Key Steps to Finding Perfect-Fit Comp Titles for Your Novel (While You’re Still Writing) | Episode 26
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Click HERE to find Comp Titles Crash Course! $97 for limited time! Comp titles--they might be one of the most dreaded topics in the writing world. After all, most of us are writing novels that feel unique, so trying to find a novel “like” ours is a nearly impossible feat. In fact… It's a frustrating, overwhelming task that makes us feel more than a…
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In Episode 21 of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Clare and Masha are discussing the miniseries Last Light. We focus on responses to the climate crisis, the difference between eco-activism and eco-terrorism, the role of disruption and violence in social justice and driving change, and how we can bring about an end to fossil fuel…
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The opening scene of your novel is arguably the most crucial part of your book. If it doesn’t capture readers' curiosity and imagination, they won’t keep reading. No wonder the opening scene is notoriously hard to write! But don’t worry—I’m here to help simplify and clarify the progress! In this episode, you’ll discover: 5 Essential Questions you M…
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In our 20th episode, Masha and Clare are discussing the 2019 film Joker, looking at its presentation of societal impact on mental health, its depiction of the consequences of wealth disparity, and how it reflects ableism in our society. In this episode, we draw on some of the ideas in Daraiseh and Booker's 2020 article: 'Jokes from Underground: The…
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Writer's block is one of the most challenging hurdles an author can encounter. It has the power to derail brilliant stories and thwart dreams of becoming a published author. But fear not—there are effective strategies to combat this creativity killer and keep your writing journey on course. In this episode, we'll delve into practical, actionable st…
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Most writers understand that creating a character with no flaws is a huge turnoff to readers because it’s hard to feel connected to someone who is perfect and does everything right. But how do you give your protagonist flaws that feel real and authentic instead of superficially layered on? Worry no more! In this episode, we'll dive deep into exact…
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Fallout
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1:10:12Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs is back! Masha and Clare have returned from our summer break, and we have a new episode out for you on the tv drama Fallout (Amazon Prime). In this episode, we discuss depiction of post-nuclear apocalypse, and the formation of societies within this. We talk about the Golden Rule vs immoral lawless…
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The biggest obstacles writers face are overcoming procrastination and avoiding the dreaded writer’s block. In fact, these obstacles are what stand between them and finishing their novel. But what many writers don’t realize is that the key to conquering these obstacles is developing a consistent writing habit that will keep their creative juices flo…
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The Timeline for Crafting a Solid Debut Novel: Writing Tips for Your First Book! | Episode 21
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Writing a speculative fiction novel that resonates with readers is tough work. Many writers feel they're doing something wrong when it takes time to create a draft that feels solid and ready to stand on its own two shaky legs. In fact, one of the very first questions most writers ask me before we start working together is some version of: "How long…
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How to Write LGBTQ+ Characters with Confidence and Care: Special Guest Sam Cameron | Episode 20
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Many writers want to include more LGBTQ+ characters in their novels, but they’re afraid of getting it wrong and doing more harm than good. If you’re one of those writers, this podcast episode is for you! My friend and colleague, Sam Cameron, explains exactly how every writer can feel empowered to write more inclusive stories. 🌟Take Sam Cameron’s qu…
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The Goal, Motivation, Stakes, and Conflict Chain: How to Write with Narrative Drive | Episode 19
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→Sign up for my free workshop Create a Dynamic Character Arc For Your Protagonist. This workshop, which includes live coaching, will help you develop the foundation elements of your novel and bridge the gap between plot and character arc! https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/workshop You might have heard of Goal, Motivation, Stakes, and Conflict…
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The Truman Show
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1:13:17In Episode 18 of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Clare and Masha are discussing the iconic and much-beloved 1998 film, The Truman Show. In this episode we discuss the appeal of reality television and what it says about our society. We look at how The Truman Show posits Seahaven as a 'utopia' and the price that Truman is made to…
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Threads
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1:22:22In this episode of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Clare and Masha are discussing the incredible yet harrowing 1984 film, Threads, a graphic depiction of the aftermath of nuclear attack, set in Sheffield (where Masha lives!). Content warning: violence and sexual violence; still-birth In this episode we discuss the impacts of nu…
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Snag my FREE workbook: resources.manyworldswriting.com/AI Everyone in the writing world is talking about AI, but should you really buy into the buzz? In this episode I’m going to explore what it’s okay to use AI for in your writing and what I believe you should never use AI for. In this episode you’ll learn: 3 tasks it’s okay to use AI for. 3 tasks…
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Snag my FREE workbook: resources.manyworldswriting.com/edit Almost every writer wants to get better at self-editing their work. But how? And which techniques improve your work the most dramatically? In this episode I’m going to talk about the self-editing hacks that will help you rapidly improve your work as you write and edit. In this episode you’…
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Snag my FREE workbook: https://resources.manyworldswriting.com/truth Ever wondered why your favorite novels feel so authentic and cohesive? It’s not about all the surface level editing you’ve been driving yourself crazy with. Instead, it’s about the deeper stuff. The bones of the narrative. In this episode I’m going to talk about the subtle parts o…
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3 Body Problem
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1:30:36In Episode 16 of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Clare Coombe and Masha Yakovleva are discussing the mind-bending physics-filled Netflix Drama, 3 Body Problem. In this episode, we look at the depiction of Mao's China and the Cultural Revolution, and the Chinese novel on which the show is based. We mention articles from The Guar…
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Poor Things
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1:31:52In Episode 15 of Dystopian Fiction Has Been Moved to Current Affairs, Clare and Masha are discussing Oscar-winning film Poor Things, which we absolutely loved. Content Warning: suicide, sexual content, FGM Themes in this episode include: brain transplants, animal and human testing, and medical ethics the legacy of Frankenstein, Gothic literature, a…
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