Would knowing the future help
you decide what to write and how to market it? Trend spotters Faith Popcorn and
Marian Saltzman shared their predictions with the Los Angeles Times recently.
Here are some of their key thoughts:
- We’re now in the American nightmare, rather than the American dream (this probably extends beyond America);
- generational tension (recent grads will feel cheated and resent Baby Boomers);
- the entertainment industry will thrive, with a heavy emphasis on nostalgia, happy endings, and fantasy;
- a move to safer cities and an increase in escapist behaviour, including smoking and drinking;
- stronger nuclear families and families of friends (including communal living) and sharing of transportation;
- acceptance of downward mobility—going simpler, smaller, and more ecologically aware.
