A magazine hosts a writing contest. The magazine editors and the judge of the contest are aware of the debate around appropriation. How could they not be? In good faith the judge awards first, second, and third prizes. Even an honourable mention.
Ah, did I mention? Judging was blind.
When the names are revealed, it turns out that two of the chosen stories are written from the point of view of characters who have no cultural, social, or gender affiliation with the authors. And yet the judge was convinced that the narratives were emotionally authentic.
I'm thinking the authors are feeling smug, the judge maybe annoyed (maybe not); the magazine stuck; the readers...?
Is this a win for the imagination or...?
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