In your writing, where do you draw the line, with either topics or language?
In your writing, where do you draw the line, with either topics or language?
This is an interesting and yet complicated topic. Some would argue that language (i.e. foul language) is part of every day life and this more realistic storytelling. Some of my favorite authors have included such language in their novels. But the key, I think, was not to overdo it. That said, these novels involved an almost “posh” FBI agent and the language was primarily from the police office accompanying him through the story. If it were a military book, there might be the excuse for more, but I’ve read several that though they didn’t overdo it, they certainly didn’t avoid it all together.
As far as other content, as an author, I have stretched my abilities and written scenes of assault. These scenes I’d only shared with a friend, to show her I could write that way. But in the end, we both agreed that it did nothing for the story and I didn’t enjoy reading it after. I don’t enjoy watching it in movies, so why would I want to read it? It doesn’t mean I’m not acknowledging the existence of assault. And I feel the same about torture scenes. I have no desire to read such topics, so why would I write about them?
One question I have: Are apocalyptical stories less popular now because we are practically living in one?
Fantastical Truth had a good discussion regarding what is “clean fiction”.
4 comments on “In your writing, where do you draw the line, with either topics or language?”
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The Consulting Writer
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- In your writing, where do you draw the line, with either topics or language?
The Consulting Writer 
I think it “all depends.” Would you characters swear? Id the story more realistic if violence is used? Then include it. Is it a Christian romance? Then don’t include either!
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We are certainly living one!
I don’t mind language in books and certainly not in films, but I don’t put it in my own work.
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I still read apocalyptic stories in urban fantasy and the paranormal.
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It’s interesting to read apocalyptic stories to see how much it lines up with our world and if things are going better or worse than an author imagined.
Like the Hunger Games, would we accept some of our children will die in exchange for certain social norms and an economy that benefits some rich people?
Good answer to the question.
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