Strong Language in Books?

[Donnavila Marie01]

I also don't think bad language should be restricted. Especially if the target audience for the book are adults.

I agree. This kind of language is sometimes needed in emphasizing the theme of the story and in depicting the kind of character the author wants to portray.

[Anirudh Badri]

It is perfectly fine for both authors and people in general to use whatever language they desire. Preventing them from expressing themselves in the manner they see fit is an unfair restriction on their freedom of expression. As to whether or not language in books causes more people to use such language, I agree that it is probably a contributing factor. On the other hand, I don't think there is anything intrinsically wrong about more people using strong language when they seek to express themselves.

[Alice Heritage]

I don't have any problems with swear words, though some words of abuse like "idiot" are problematic, because they could promote ableism.

[Athena Moon]

If the story is strong, so should be the language it is written with. These are the real words to portray the real conflict and tension in the book. This language is necessary to introduce real emotions.

[Marylynn]

Restricting bad language would kill the flow of the book therefore authors should not be restricted.

[Emilyflint]

All I have to say is free speech. Sometimes there is a reason for strong language, describes the character or scene. I dont care for it if it is just for the heck of it and overdone. But I just skip past them.

[Lest92]

Nope, I don't think they should be discouraged. Swear words have their place, I think. It's nothing shocking anymore.

[Londera]

Personally I don't mind strong language in books written for adults. As long as its not over used or takes away from the story, which rarely happens.

[Donnavila Marie01]

It is perfectly fine for both authors and people in general to use whatever language they desire. Preventing them from expressing themselves in the manner they see fit is an unfair restriction on their freedom of expression. As to whether or not language in books causes more people to use such language, I agree that it is probably a contributing factor. On the other hand, I don't think there is anything intrinsically wrong about more people using strong language when they seek to express themselves.

I agree. Using strong language is a part of our freedom of expression. The use of strong language helps the author to show the strong emotions or feelings of the characters in the story.

[Miche Sora]

Normally, I have no problem with bad language in books, but if the story starts to sound like the characters are all from a bad episode of Jersey Shore, then it gets old. It should be used sparingly to make an impact. One Laurell K Hamilton book I read had an average of 10 versions of f*ck per page--ugh.

[TheSeelieCourtJester]

If it's in the context of the book, then it's appropriate. For example, for a soldier in a military thriller, they will not say, "Gosh darn it!" They will not take the time to find other euphemisms to please their morals. Still, there are limits. A character who cusses for a reason will be viewed differently than a character who cusses just to look cool. I just have more respect for someone who can control their tongue.

[Jax14]

I don't thing swearing should be taken out just for the sake of censorship. A person is always going to hear some form of swearing at some stage around them, be it at the mall or on the tv, and as long as the author is responsible and uses it correctly and not for shock value it's part of life. I worked in an environment where people swore a lot and I don't even hear it anymore - I hardly noticed any in the book because I think my brain automatically filters it out!

[ritah]

In the book, "The Expansion" by Christoph Martin, suggestive language is used in the book.

Should authors be restricted from using bad language in books?

Do you think explicit language in books encourages the increase of potty mouths?

Absolutely not, there shouldn't be any restrictions - freedom of expression should be valued as it allows authors to showcase their creativity...

I think there is a lot of media and other sources out there that expose people to a lot of explicit language - it's up to an individual to carefully choose their influences. That is life.

[lrbfilm]

I am glad there isn't censorship in regards to foul language, it can do a lot for characters and their diaglog. It colors our world, why not let it color the world of the books we read. Speaking them is a choice that we make.

[Aarush Kumar]

It depends on the author and the plot... What each reader views as Strong language also makes a difference... There are situations where it's justified, and situations where it looks childish... It's all about how well it can blend in with the plot and the dialogues...