This week it’s about
controversial authors and their books.
Ender's Game by
Orson Scott Card is a combination of coming of age, war, deceptions, and
battle tactics.
Ender is a boy genius in simulated games of war, like a
total Call of Duty geek. The authorities notice his talent and push him down a
path of their choosing, and he isn’t aware until the end how far they’ll go to get what they want.
The movie adaption of the book was rather good. The CGI was
realistic and I liked the actors who played the parts. It is a tale that makes
you think and leaves the reader shocked, a characteristic of true sci-fi.
But after the movie came out, I read of people boycotting
the movie and I became aware of Mr. Card’s strong views on gay rights and
politics that pretty much offend both sides of the equation.
Some authors can afford to give their less-than-PC ’tudes. They
are famous enough and rich enough to do this. But it is my policy to refrain
from giving my political views and opinion (very strong) on divisive issues.
Just not my style.
But Mr. Card can and does.
So, shall I never ever buy another book of his due to his
opinions? Nope. I try to keep the subjects separate. If his books held the same
viewpoint, that might be a different story.
What do you think?
* * * *
Huntress aka CD Coffelt, author of The Magic
5 comments:
I just read a bit of what he had to say on the subject and all I can say is, wow. And, how disappointing.
I agree with you, Huntress. I try to keep my views private as well. When I talk about things on my blog or Twitter, it's very neutral, even if I do have opinions about what is being said. I think I live in a bubble because I didn't realize Orson Scott Card was so vocal on his viewpoints. But I like that you separate the author from the book.
The funny thing is I don't think he means it to be so offensive. I listened to him speak at a writer's conference filled with mainly people of the same religion as himself, and he managed to offend almost every one of them during his keynote address. Someone told me he has some mental disconnect (illness) that doesn't translate well in social circles. I've learned to just shrug off what people say and go merrily on my way. As an author, I've enjoyed most of his books, but not all of them.
I remember the brouhaha that erupted when the movie came out. Since I found the movie to be interesting, I was able to ignore his views.
It's interesting. If I enjoyed the story before knowing about the author, I stick to enjoying the story. If I know about the author before hearing about the book (Bill O'Reilly), I'm less inclined to try out the book. Well, that is if I disagree strongly with the author (a minor difference of viewpoint won't bother me).
I guess the moral of the story (from my point of view) is to remain silent until you have a strong following. (And doubly important for me.)
@ Marcy and Liz - Even knowing his attitude, I'd still read Card's stuff. I hope that doesn't make me a bad person.
@Charity - I prefer to think he isn't so hard natured. thanks for letting me know about the possible illness. I think I probably have a touch of it myself sometimes.
@Kristin - Trying to keep my mouth shut is one of the hardest jobs there is.
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