The question (asked yesterday here):
Today's Topic:
Christian fiction is generally known for being clean and non-offensive, but lately there's been a lot of chatter about edgy Christian fiction and the need for Christian fiction to be more realistic. Christian fiction has certainly changed and contains a lot more edge than it used to. This makes some readers uncomfortable and I was wondering what you line is? What would push the envelope too far for a Christian fiction novel for you? Language? Sex? Violence? Main characters who never believe in Jesus?
If you came across something that offended you in a Christian fiction book, how would you handle it?
My Response:
Anything that pushes the envelope makes me ask "why?" Why do I need to read this piece of information--is it pivotal to the story? Does it develop the characters? And does it lead the story to be God-honoring?
That said, I dislike anything graphic. Gritty doesn't equal graphic, and realistic? Please. If it goes on in everyday life, why would I want to read it in detail in my fiction?
No language, please. Tell the character used a choice word, a four letter word, a word his Momma would have washed his mouth out for/put her in the corner for...whatever. I don't need the word--I have an imagination, and I know how to use it.
Sex? Save it for your private life, please. That's not what we're about as believers, anyway. Even between married people, it's personal stuff, so don't ask me to read it.
I will let my readers know of anything I find objectionable, but I'll do my best to do so in a non-judgmental, non-critical way. And I'll always double-check my facts before I report them on my blog (learned that lesson the hard way!).
Those are my two cents, plus change!
Want to chime in? Go here.
Happy Reading!
Sell Used Books - Have Your Books Shipped To Us For Free And Get Fast Cash Back!
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Faith n' Fiction Saturdays!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
 | |
The Good Book NetRing | |
.jpg)
Stumble It!
1 comment:
What a great topic! I went over and read several posts.
I read a 'Christian' fiction book recently, the newest release of one of my favorite authors, where the main characters were not Christians and it was only at a funeral where Jesus was mentioned once, and only in a passing way. That really bothered me. I like faith to be a real and vibrant part of the story, and normally this author does such a good job at it!
I have honestly felt like one particular Christian fiction author crossed the line where it comes to passionate scenes. I mean, people were falling into each others arms all over the place and male and female people couldn't seem to have a conversation without kissing each other, whether or not they were dating that person or someone else. Being a living breathing single woman, this rings very... strange. All of my friendships with guys are very pure and even when there is attraction and admiration we treat each other as brothers and sisters. I don't appreciate reading about such a lack of restraint or self-control. Yes, there should be chemistry and tension, but unless the characters are in a relationship with each other I'd rather see them stand up for purity and the fruit of the Spirit.
I agree with you completely on the matter of graphic descriptions and language.
It is good to have you back, Deena! I'm glad you were able to be there for your daughter, though I missed you while you were gone. :-)
Post a Comment