VIEWERS AS VICTIMS

To the Editor:
If Red Smith could be inspired in 1951 to write that "the art of fiction is dead; reality has strangled invention," Larry Gelbart has cause to groan in 1995 [ "Peering Through the Tube Darkly," April 16 ] . Fortunately, relief is in sight. A minority of viewers, not classifiable as voyeurs, have applied for victim status. We are not entertained by ugliness, gossip or scandal. Without hesitation, we channel surf or switch off, read a book or meditate.
MARTHA S. CHERKIS Brooklyn

http://www.nytimes.com/1995/05/14/arts/l-fact-and-fiction-on-tv-viewers-as-victims-664695.html?sec=&spon=
[Commenting on Article: "Peering Through the Tube Darkly.." Article by Larry Gelbart re: Rodney King, New York Times, April 16, 1995.]