[cylon]

It's all trying to compensate for a lack of fulfillment in our own lives. Escapism has it's place every day, but it can't become our reason for living.

The reason we are so compelled to vicariously live through fictional characters is because a large part of us wishes we were out in the world, interacting, and making things happen.

When that happens your need for escapist entertainment basically goes away.

So the question becomes, which path to take. Living vicariously through fictional characters, or living your own real adventure, first hand.

So the answer to your question is the effects of massive fiction reading are you never live your life or fulfill your potential.

I think they had it easier in the olden times. They had the option of books, or go outside and do something. Now we have way too many things we can use to distract ourselves.