Discussion: Writing About Controversial Topics

On Monday I published an article called “The Game of Thrones Rape Problem“.  I was honestly expecting death threats for daring to a) criticize a much-beloved show and b) to criticize it while being female.  Thankfully that has not been the case and it’s probably helped that my post really hasn’t received that many random views from search engines.  Controversial topics aren’t really all that new to me as a blogger, as you guys probably know from my (in)famous rants and these discussion posts.

However, I know that some bloggers deliberately avoid topics like sexual assault, race/diversity issues and gender inequality in fiction because it can bring down the wrath of the darkest corners of the internet down on your head.  I completely understand that because let’s face it: it’s really no fun getting rape or death threats from total strangers.  (Understatement of the year, I know.)  After my little confrontation with a certain author I am probably the last person to judge any blogger from shying away from controversial topics.

So what I want to discuss is this: Do you find yourself shying away from controversial topics?  If so, why?  If not, why?  And please, no judgment against fellow bloggers here.  We should all write within our comfort levels and I feel it’s important to discuss why or why not we feel safe talking about some topics but won’t touch others with a ten foot pole.

While I do talk about diversity, gender inequality and sexual assault in fiction I personally try to stay away from religion because in school I was bullied horrifically for daring to not be Roman Catholic.  I still find I have that particular hang up today, even when talking amongst family and friends because I’m so used to be told I’m going to hell for not worshipping the correct god or worshipping the correct god incorrectly.  Do you guys have any hang ups about similar topics, even in real life amongst close friends/family?

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