I'm not sure what context this was said in, but Chesterton said something like "fiction is indispensable".

As traditional Catholics, what role does (or rather, should) fiction play in our lives?

I have always had a vivid imagination and before my conversion often immersed myself in as many fantasy and science fiction books that I could find. After finding tradition, I have severely limited myself to non-fiction and poetry.

Lately however, I have found myself reading some fantasy. I become so absorbed in the plot and characters that upon finishing a series, a heavy melancholy sets over me as though I have just parted with a good friend, or something to that extent.

Is this normal by any standards? Healthy?

If it is socially awkward I would be accepting of that, but I do not wish for it to interfere with my spiritual progress and I would like to know the experiences of fellow Catholics in this regard.

Thank you.