: Re: Effect of real world brands and/or places on story tone This is based on that question, but from a tone point of view. Let's say I have a story taking place in a near-future version of Boston,

@Heady158

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Specificity can be helpful. Just as you can characterize the protagonist by telling us that he shuffled into the courtroom in his flame-colored flip flops, you can show the characters' preferences and habits (and maybe their economic situation) through their choices of brands, locations, and their reactions to well-known landmarks. The character who grabs a burger from McDonald's may have a different lifestyle from the one who insists on shopping only at Whole Foods. In addition, people often enjoy learning about other places through fiction. A character who knows the ins and outs of Boston could be fun to follow around.

However, random name-dropping of real-life brands and locations can create a "dated" or commercial feel to a piece. I haven't seen "literary" works use them unless for a clear, specific purpose.

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