LGBT+ and Its Presence in Fiction

An author friend of mine, Amelia Faulkner, posted a very insightful article by Han Hirschi titled "Why Writing LGBT Stories Doesn't Make You a Part of the LGBT Community." I'm not going to rehash it, but if it's a topic of curiosity, do check out this opinion piece and feel free to talk about it...

What did interest me aside from that were the comments and discussion, which these articles/posts are meant to do.

I haven't ever really discussed my impression of stories like 50 Shades that got similar flack for what communities often address: inaccuracy and inclusion.  It seems to be a common offense in the LGBT community-- if you're not one of us don't write about us.

Keep in mind that you could BE one of those letters and some people will still find offense. There is the general jab to NOT write outside your letter or you're basically writing as an "ally" which some people feel are outside of the community.

This is precisely why, as a writer and author, I don't feel particularly fond of writing 'as a representative' and make it clear that I have no interest in a hive mind mentality.  Everyone needs allies, even if they tend to step on toes by not having 'the same struggle.'  Who does? I certainly don't adopt the struggles of all white women of questionable preference and eclectic fandoms.

Whether you like it or not, fantasy is just that.  It is not meant to be inclusive or factual, nor particularly accurate, even when some attempt is made to give it a basis in logic. It is sometimes written with a broad audience in mind, sometimes just appealing to a handful.  Fiction is meant to be daring and offer a writer's unique take and perspective.  Nevertheless, it is entertainment, first and foremost, and was never meant to be held to the standards of nonfiction where facts and accuracy carry far more weight.

So when I see someone is offended, I do consider where they are coming from, but if they are in attack mode, they are far less sympathetic. Being offended is their choice and chances are it is coming from a sincere place.  Yet, as Dave Chappelle said, how far can total strangers be expected to adopt the quirks of someone's identity? Is it not far better that there is an attempt to be empathetic or interested than it is to avoid addressing anything so people can feel 'safe'?

I have seen many 'safe' works and they end up being far more offensive or bland due to the lack of anyone challenging anything.  What makes up one person's interest and take on fantasy is not going to be good for everyone.  Even in genres, you'll get people who balk at being challenged as to what 'belongs' there.

Yes, books like 50 Shades can be controversial in their poor examples of actual BDSM (and let's not forget-- it is definitely a literary nightmare, being poorly written).  BDSM communities were quick to jump its shit, domestic abuse and mental health advocates were quick to explain that the Ana chick was a victim, but I think over the course of controversy, we forget one thing.

It is fiction, whether you like it or not.  It is good to facilitate those discussions, but I wouldn't lose sleep over it. Whatever personal or professional reasons you have, don't deny writers their voice or try to intimidate them away from that outlet.

On a side note, if anyone feels I am abrasive, understand that you missed my intent. I can be brash and honest, but I never give any advice or opinion as if the mike is dropped and no more needs to be said.  By all means, challenge me, but keep in mind, I lose enough sleep on creative endeavors. I won't be drawn into useless feels over opinions, but I will gladly lose sleep over intelligent discussion.

Wish I could cite some more LGBT examples.  The mentioned friend does write queer male stories as a bisexual woman, so if that's your thing, do check it out!  Gotta pick up my nephews, so if I have more to add specifically on LGBT+, I'll update it after some coffee.

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Just a little more to add. I did want to go back to at least weighing in on the article. There was a lot of emphasis in one section where the poster is adamant that heterosexuals (and a side note including whether asexuals or aromantics 'belong.') Maybe it is true that it is 'problematic' when they consider themselves part of that community when they can be seen as 'the enemy' or an 'abnormality.' Still, you have to consider that their sympathies mean that they often don't fit where you think they should go, especially among homophobes or the very questionable grey areas of the ever-debated asexual spectrum. There are plenty of people whose comfort zone doesn't get a nice little label. Hell, maybe they can't identify or have an underlying mental illness they aren't completely aware of. In trying to force them into a box, it doesn't do them any favors. I get it if you don't want those people to speak for you, but even in the comfort of a community, 'your' people will try to do just that.  It is better to weigh in on their actual intent rather inject your own general bias, is it not? No one likes assumptions.  Opinions are fine, but always speak for yourself.  Even when you are asked to speak for someone less courageous, be prepared for them to disagree.

Be good to each other whenever possible and keep writing!