Millions of people are in the market for good werewolf erotica and other risque novels, and many writers from all over the world are ready to oblige. It can be good money for young or neophyte authors; one writer earned 4,900 USD for his latest novel. But some of these gig writers—who come from the Philippines, Nigeria, China, and Mexico, among others—do have a complaint. They can’t write about their own culture! It’s highly unlikely for stories taking place in non-Western settings to be approved by the publishers. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
