should booktok be political? are books political? | more book drama | books and politics

[@Dani_77709]

If books aren't political then why book banning exists?

[@aliciavelice3806]

I was just about to say that :) Books since their inception have been political. From whom was allowed to read them and own them to who was actually taught to read. They are a history of what society was like and the hopes and fears of people living in that time. They point out disparity in some instances they brought about social change. Books are most definitely political. While you can read for enjoyment and escapism, it is also important to read with a critical mind at least that it what our English teachers were trying to teach us. I mean take Huck Fin, still a book they want to ban but it touches on slavery and equality and the lives of the poor in the deep south. Then there is My most loathed book, Lord of the Flies which shows what happens in society when rules are not present to keep people in line. I loathed it because I refused to believe we as humans would become so horrible and cruel, but have since realized, that some of us need the rules to behave well. I am currently reading a young adult book which centers around putting oneself together after living in a scary abusive upbringing how the same events can happen to two half-sisters, and it is all about circumstances, as to love and care you receive. And if you did not receive, that care, in this instance her mom was losing her mind and trying to protect her from her horrible father. How do you create a full person? Books talk about society in ways that hopefully most of us as readers have not lived through, and sometimes we have, and it gives us comfort. And my friends that is very political.

[@zvikomboreromukamba3389]

What is the book called ​@@aliciavelice3806

[@dnsb5548]

Exactly!!!

[@TamTam9-15]

As a high school librarian thank you. I deal with the politics of books all the time!

[@altheamaeve]

Precisely the point. The content of the any literary work is a (political) choice deliberately made by the author.

[@S.a.n.n.e]

Even if a book doesn’t seem political, the fact that the author has decided to leave all controversial or political themes and topics out of their narrative, is a political choice

[@darkdream1469]

THIS!!!!💯💯💯

[@graeson3317]

Reading is access to knowledge and knowledge is power. Reading will always have ties to politics. Book burning existed to destroy knowledge that fascists though opposed their views. They knew that the access to information not fed to the people by them gave the people power.

[@AyaMBayomi]

being literate is political, being able to afford books id political, certain books being allowed in your country is political, having internet access is political, having KZbin access is political, but it's the kind of politics some people take for granted.

[@allithebookgiraffe6145]

I don't want book recs from people with no reading comprehension skills.

[@sammyjoco1]

I'm on booktok and I feel that books are political. Even the fluffy ones because there is always some type of problem or problems that arise in them. And of course there are the ones you mentioned which are definitely political. It has made me think about what I am reading too.

[@abby-mw]

As someone who has a really small mental capacity for something more than escapism right now, I would say the escapism itself is inherently political thing. Because both the reason why you want to escape in the first place and books you choose to do so are heavily dictated by politics around and your personal worldview. It's ok if you don't want to discuss something, but to say that your reading is out of politics looks immature and somewhat hypocritical for me

[@c.lstrife]

As An American, I was shocked at what happened in the elections, but I tried to move on in my life right now. Unfortunately, there's been documentation lately that our reading comprehension is getting worse, and adults are now reporting that they cant read. The most reports happen to be in states with the most banned books too which is the sad irony. Stories will always have a political mention in some way or form, that is how a story survives through the ages. Here are some examples: For the hunger games, it was also inspired by the story of Theseus and the minotaur, which in itself is a political story as well. How to train your dragon is also political as well (both films and books). Here is some book that have political issues discussed or implied: 1. Les Miserables by Victor Hugo 2. Maximum Ride by James Patterson. 3. A tree grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith. 4. Lord of the rings by Tolkien. 5. The lunar chronicals by Marissa Meyer. 6. Six of crows By leigh bardugo. 7. The Giver by Lois Lowry 8. The Grimms complete fairytales. By the Brothers Grimm 9. Red Queen by Victoria Averyard. 10. Harry Potter by J.K Rowling.

[@Leomoon101]

Like art, literature is meant to communicate to the audience. If this is something that a reader is uncomfortable about, I suggest put the book down and ask yourself why it makes you feel uncomfortable, have a discussion with someone you feel close with and then continue to read the book.

[@kendrajanelle1996]

You summed this up so well! I personally can't imagine reading solely for escapism but some people can/do. Still that doesn't mean that politics don't exist in those books. The upfront approach seems to be the option that has the most benefits for everyone. Why would you want to stay in a personal space that is saying upfront "you won't like it here" especially if escapism and enjoyment are your priority? I wonder how much of this is connected to so much of our modern content feeling personally geared to us that being told straightforwardly "this isn't for you" is jarring. That effect is probably amplified for people who have been privileged enough to be new to spaces feeling exclusionary (which is the impression I get of a lot of the "booktok/books shouldn't be political" crowd).

[@Mercurykin08]

Books have and always will be political! Doesn’t matter where you live or who you are as a person. ❤ when you’re on a platform it is important to protect books and speak out.

[@maitimo7]

everything in your everyday life is political. you can not escape from politics

[@dnsb5548]

It baffles me that this has to be explained!! isn’t it obvious?!

[@lexybaginsky]

For me, it's like this: Everyone can decide if THEIR page should be free of political discussions or not. If I want a completely drama free page, I can ask people to keep such discussions out and ban people who can't stop. BUT if the creator wants to talk about their beliefs, politics, whatever, then of course they can. And if people don't like it, they can just stay away from those accounts. Problem solved.

[@Ika0713]

This is 100% my stance too. And please not sub tweeting or making call out posts so your followers either mass unfollow or harass another creator just bc they chose be either non political or too political. Just let ppl be and respect each other's choice.

[@OoLaLaFrenchGirl]

@@lexybaginsky this is the most common sense approach. 👍🏻

[@thedarkhorse9218]

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! It is pretty telling when you look at who usually complains by saying, "Stop making things political... I want to escape." What a privileged and entitled view... And complete failure to recognize that some peoples' mere existence -- in and of itself -- is political. Excellent commentary!!

[@dunniaromolaran2233]

I think its a bit of both🤔 Books can be escapism. Books can also be political. One book might be political and an escape simultaneously 🤔

[@ilvermorny7352]

Fr, I love how you focused more on the discussion of politics on Booktok rather than if reading is political (because it is), we're not a monolith, but it's always a very specific archetype, and readers that gets angry about the political discussion

[@kaylamoerman8808]

I think there is valid argument to be made to wanting to read books without unpacking their political implications and why we enjoy them. However choosing to subscribe to analysing politics in a book and engaging and critiquing what you are reading not the same as rejecting the notion that politics should and will always exist in books. As long as there are differences in opinions there will be things to analyse in books because the choice to portray certain themes and discuss certain ideas or even just present them in certain ways says a lot about the authors opinion or the status quo at time and within the society it was written.

[@skippingclouds]

Books are inherently political, our existence itself is. So people who think something shouldn't be "political" have a certain privilege. It's as simple as that.

[@gui.coimbra]

A simple example to comprehend why books are CERTAINLY political: the burning and banning of them throughout history. Pay attention to why this happened, and continues to happen today, in some places. And the topics these books address. It's pretty easy to understand, if you have 2 functioning brain cells. And yes, books can be political and entertaining at the same time. These notions are not necessarily mutually exclusive.

[@asterya6913]

The thing that bother me the most is that. No one say precisely what they mean when they say. "Politics." Everything can be political. Everything is if you take into account all the systems we live in daily. Like economic system (capitalism) who influence our, well, political systems (our laws and election) who influence our cultural systems (what art get made and the values it promote) who all influence our social systems (our community and family) who influence us. And all of them and more constantly interact and intersect to shape who we are. But to be blunt. People who say to keep politics out of "insert space" are usually not doing it for the reasons they cites such as stop the "divisiveness" or in good faith. No matter what they say or if they are fully conscious of it. First. What that type of person usually mean by politics is usually stuff related to LGBTQIA+, Race, Feminism, Colonialism and so on. And by "keep out" they usually mean any discussion shouldn't have the right to exist at all, especially in a public space. Even if they are never going to see them. Because it's their very existences that bother and make them uncomfortable. And rather then questions or be curious about where those feelings come from. They seek to stop and erase any and all discussion of those topics. So they never have to face those unpleasant feelings or questions themselves. Or yes, because they have the opposite values and views (aka are openly conservative you could say to follow which topics I used as an example. But anyone and anything can have that attitude.) and think that it's all stupid. Which is why they refuse to stay in their lane where the type of subject they don't like aren't talked about and they feel safe and comfortable. Because they can **never** feel safe and comfortable simply knowing that topics and issues and yes, people. They think shouldn't exists or have certain opinions and views. Are out in public and have the right to have a space. They can only feel good when everything they don't like have either been so thoroughly forced underground that they can wonder if it exist, or purged for good. A less political but good example of that kind of attitude. Would be toxic fans that harass anyone criticizing what they love. It doesn't matter if you give warnings or if your critics are fair, polite, good and constructive. Because what bother them usually isn't what the specific criticism is about or how it's done. It's that it exist. In their mind. Criticism of what they love **shouldn't exist** at all. It doesn't have the right or the legitimacy to exist and be in a public space where they can see it. (Even if they can just ignore it) It should and must only be positivity and praise. Which is why you can find them invading the spaces of people who didn't like it. And trying to shut down the conversation any way they can. That type of individual is also often privileged. Which usually cause a lack of self awareness and willingness to understand why others who are not as lucky would want to talk about it. With a big dash of entitlement coming from the fact they are used to being catered to. And don't have to adjust their behavior or keep their feelings and opinions for them whenever they go. So for many. Telling them that a space won't try to appeal to them and that they cannot act as they please in it. Feel like a personal attack and outright prejudice. Since their normal. Is that every space was made for them to do anything they please in it whenever they want as long as they want. Social media algorithms who customize what we see to a T, so it appeal specifically to us as much as possible. Have arguably worsened this phenomenon. As it's a well known fact that they create bubbles and push people further and further away in their respective positions. Which is another factor on why everyone feel that we are more divided then before. Because we are. We always have been, as it's just human nature to split up and form groups. But medias and algorithm have ramp up this natural tendencies and speed it up by 200%. Which is ironically also why the question. Should booktok be political ? Controversy blew up so fast and already have two pretty defined groups. The it should NOT be political one. And the YES it should be political one. With some opinions in between and more nuance that usually get lost overall among all the heated debates. With the situation in the USA further fueling all of this dumpster fire.

[@Ika0713]

Not true and a very dishonest take. When ppl say I don't want politics in my book or don't be political, they're saying DON'T PREACH TO ME. Which is an universal sentiment that has existed since the beginnings of literature. Don't preach to your readers has a been a writing rule for ages now. Having a message doesn't equal preaching. It's about the execution. They also mean, "Yes I want to read about your take on colonialism under the guise of a fantasy/sci fi reimagining where the pale skinned alien race stole the land from the clearly poc dragon riders. No, I don't want to read about how you hate Trump or any other active actual controversial political figure." Basically, "Yes I agree the Capitol represents Hollywood and fascism and yes killing children is obviously wrong. No, I don't want to read about the American Liberals vs Republicans. At the very least give them a different fantasy name and add them to your world building. But if I wanted to read this (usually poorly written) book to see more American political discourse I would just stay on Twitter, or watch news channels with credible sources." When ppl say they want escapism, it doesn't mean books should not have political themes, and it does NOT mean "Ew diversity" which is your take. It means don't preach about the current state of your country's politics using actual public figures or subjects of the present if it's NOT non-fiction. You know how many contemporary fictional books and movies are out there with Obama as president and giving us lectures about him being the second coming of JC? Please. Ppl didn't get upset at Superman protesting climate change rights bc of "anti-wokeness" they got mad bc the dude has the power to revert time but is somehow unable to do anything in his own unverse to fix climate change??? It's just a plot hole. Plus, I do always question why someone creates a fantasy world and immediately fills it in with homophobia, anti black racism and misogyny, especially when it's not trying to say anything relevant about these topics. Why is your fantasy world that YOU imagined as bigoted as ours and the same ppl are being marginalized? You couldn't imagine a world where queer ppl are equal and accepted? Really? In the end tho, yeah if an author wants to write just that, or be extremely over the nose political, they have the right to. It doesn't mean most ppl are going to enjoy it tho.

[@asterya6913]

@@Ika0713 Where did I write that ABSOLUTELY ALL the persons who said to keep politics out of booktok and art were doing so in bad faith ? Seriously. Where. I said USUALLY. Precisely to take into account the people that aren't being in bad faith. Like those that want pure escapism because real life is hard enough, those that prefer to read solely nonfiction about it, those that just find it boring, and yes, those like you who often find it preachy so don't like it, and everyone else with differents reasons I can't think of right now. I mean. That's obvious ? Which is why I used the word usually and not always. Very rarely is there a 100% when people and opinions are concerned. So how I am being dishonest ??? You seemed to have taken my comment like a personal attack. Which I find kinda baffling because I was just trying to talk about a type of person I see all the time. That is exactly the kind the video talks about. Who are warned and know that they are not going to like or feel good interacting with a piece of art or a space. But still do it. Then complain like hell about it and try to destroy it or change it to fit their taste. With my comments trying to share my opinion that they have this seemingly stupid behavior. Because it's the thing *existing* that really bother them. So rather then ignore it, live and let live, like anyone would. They feel the urgent need to shut it down. Sure. You can argue that using "usually" is too strong and I should have said "often" or something. I didn't conduct an in depth research about the percentage of people like that. I just know they exists, are a real thing, and are VERY loud. Because I stumble into them all the time and maybe you are lucky enough not to. But also. You're wrong. When you say, "When ppl say I don't want politics in my book or don't be political, they're saying DON'T PREACH TO ME" Ahem. *SOME* people. (Yes, I'm proudly being nitpicky right back at you. For thinking my usually was an always and not taking into account the nuance) If someone just say. "I don't want politics in my book. Don't be political." You don't actually know what they mean or if they have the same definition as you. Unless you talk to them or they elaborate......which is the thing I was complaining about in the very first lines of my comments..... That the word. "Politics." Is vague and mean different things for different people, which is why I found it frustrating when say people refuse to be more precise about what they mean. A few other definitions of politics for some peoples. Politics def A = real life laws, election, events, public figures. Period. Politics def B = systems of governance that affect all of society and us. Politics def C = Political activism and people trying to push for changes they want to see. 50/50 if I find it annoying or not. Politics def D = a boring and useless subject. I wish we could move away from. It only divide people. Politics def E = some problems that don't concern me and happen to others. I don't want to participate in it, and don't want to hear about it. Politics def F = something something. I don't get it but I hear that problem on the new is political ? But I find it SO annoying because it's all everyone talk about. I don't care and I wanna talk about something else. Politics def G = Everything I don't like, feel uncomfortable with, or hate. And what I like, feel comfortable with or love. Isn't political, it's just normal. Politics def H = All of the above, mix and mash, depending on the day. Politics def I = "insert definition I didn't think about" So no. When ppl say they don't want politics in their books. You and I have no idea what they are actually talking about. Or if they are being in good faith. Unless details are given. Otherwise. You can waste your afternoon talking to the kind of individuals I complained about in my first comments. Who pretend that their definition of politics is. Let's say something like A and C. And try to argue that it has no place here. But the more you talk to them the more it's obvious their definition is more something like F and G. You know. Arguing in BAD FAITH. Which is why they often refuse to elaborate on what they mean by "politics" and tell you for sure you know what they mean or outright lie. Same for preaching. I hear people say that the simple presence of trans people in anything. Was "preaching the woke agenda" to them and "confusing" their children. Didn't mean anything if it was well done and relevant. Same for nonbinary people. Even in fantasy or SciFi. They felt that just those groups being mentioned at all was shoving "politics" down their throat. "When ppl say they want escapism, it doesn't mean books should not have political themes, and it does NOT mean "ew diversity" which is your take. It means don't preach about the current state of your country's politics using actual public figures or subjects of the present if it's NOT non-fiction." Ahem. Wrong again. *SOME* people do. Again. Stop assuming everyone share your opinions and act like you speak for all of them and that only your definition of politics or escapism is used. When people say they want escapism, they can be using your definition. Sure. Or they can also mean. "I want escapism. I wan to read about a world where POC/Feminist/Queer/Gendernonconforming people aren't there, are irrelevant, or suffer. And a glorious white patriarchal vaguely European society dominate everything and everyone." That's also what some people would call escapism. In fact, it's one of the reason the far right often adore the middle age or ancient Greece. Because they project their false image of a glorious past onto it. A past they want to relive and make a reality. I see. That "ew diversity" give me the vibe you really think my take was. "Everyone who say to keep politics out of art is ABSOLUTE doing it in bad faith and is a horrible and monstrous person that hate women, brown people and anything gay. They have absolutely no good reasons or any valids point. Because they're just BAD people !" Which....is false ? I really, really have no idea. How in hell my comment gave you any of that vibe. Because you sure as hell give me the vibe you felt targeted.

[@Temidirem]

This might be tangential but this reminded me of a conversation I had with a friend days after the US elections on how the world is becoming increasingly authoritarian (about 70% last I checked) and less Democrat. Populist leaders are on the rise cos Democracy as a concept is incredibly difficult as it only takes one bad leader to undo years of democratic government. I then asked my friend to recommend any fantasy/sci-fi book (I only read this genre) that has democratically elected leaders and he couldn't. Cos most fantasy books or even kids books seem to have Kings and Queens, Princes and Princesses, a coalition of corporations or things like that and these forms of government have unckecked powers that are either in the background or what our protagonists are trying to fight against. The idea of Democray is that no one holds all the power and there could be a "President" with the illusion of power but they don't. I guess there is something more compelling to humans especially in books about knowing who holds all the power, who can be blamed and so on. Maybe that's why Democracy is becoming less popular in real life cos you don't know who to blame cos they're all to blame. The irony is, you can't necessarily challenge an authoritarian leader without consequences. I read books mostly for escape but I also know everything is political. Like Shelley mentioned, the author's world view informs their characters, the world building in their books amongst other things. It might seem normal or non-political to you but it is political to someone else. I also get the idea of not engaging with people you don't agree on certain things but I do hope we can have more conversations less in silos and openly disagree. There's nothing I love more than a good conversation with someone with a completely different perspective from me long as it's not rooted in prejudice. PS: If anyone can recommend a fantasy/sci-fi book with a complex democracy similar to what we have in the real world, that would be appreciated and prove that my tangential was a waste of everyone's time 😂😂😂

[@rezza_lynsaii]

@@Temidirem capitalism is such a bad concept. It doesn’t equal democracy. a more socialist/Marxist society with federalism and safeguards is what I would say represent democracy.

[@cgreen6099]

Thank you for this video. I’m writing a fantasy that involves culture clash and I hadn’t thought about how political that would or could be. Now I understand and know how I feel.

[@morethanyourbasics]

I have seen TV or films dissected by film critics, therapists, actors, make up artists etc. This also goes for reality TV like Love is Blind - i've seen therapists break down different relationships or individuals just as i've seen casual viewer commentary. Someone can dissect a movie from a technical stand point or count how many red cars show up on the screen. Neither contradict the other and there's more than enough space for all opinions. I agree with what you said about staying in your own lane. One group existing doesn't invalidate another group. If you want to bury your head in the sand you are free to do so (quietly and privately) but being an aggressor is another thing.

[@m.gorssa]

Literature is ideological and open to approach from different ideological standpoints. 💁🏻‍♂️

[@IfersInklings]

I love a good troupe, but I’ve still never read a book that didn’t have some type of political commentary in it. The politics get even more blatant when you read fantasy and sci-fi. I’m just so confused by people not seeing books as being political.

[@TimeTravelReads]

I wonder how much of this may be an educational divide? US schools used to teach whole novels. Schools now teach students to respond to excerpts for standardized tests, creating a less deep connection to texts. I was taught that fiction is based on reality, and how to connect the two. I get the feeling that this might be a new concept for some content creators. I was taught that reading existed to help me be a lifelong learner, not just for escapism. That also seems to be a foreign concept to many creators. Is there an age, geography, or income gap between the people on either side of this divide that might indicate what sorts of reading expectations might have been placed on them growing up?

[@RaynaxSwan]

Your consistency is insane 🔥 thanks for the inspiration ❤

[@tm.mihaela]

This is such a centrist take. It's encouraging people to stay in their bubbles without interacting with others that may challenge their beliefs.

[@TimeTravelReads]

I wonder something else. Why does this divide between people who want to talk about the political themes and contexts of books, and those who want pure escapism, seeminly so permanent? Couldn't one person want to analyze a book one day, and want to escape the next, depending on what's going on in their life and which book they're reading? Also, I just have to wonder about using books purely for escapism year after year. I guess I'm nosy and judgemental but why? I'm actually curious. Does it get boring after a while? Are these readers stuck in a place of trauma they need to escape from? Do they know that nonfiction can be awesome? Are they working three jobs? Is there an escape only reading to book banner pipeline?

[@andrewb6194]

My old college had a book called “The Republican War On Science” If that ain’t political, I don’t know what is

[@ZephyrusSage]

My viewpoint is that when its just you reading the book it can be about escapism. You could still possibly consider it that if you talk about it with people who share your views but, once you engage in the broader discourse around it the topic becomes political.

[@LeoOliver-s5m]

Here's my take: it depends on the type of books a reader likes to read. Someone who only reads smutty romances or gory thrillers may feel that their reading is not at all political, but purely for entertainment purposes. However, most books do have deeper meanings and messages that are embedded in the text and reading is generally more rewarding when the reader takes the time to process what they read. I agree that, although not all books are about politics per say, books do tend to be about issues that are relevant to our society. I definitely like to take in the context of a book, learn as much as possible about an author and explore any societal issues that the book brings up, have my own analysis of it. I do however also go through reading slumps sometimes, when I find it easier to read fluffy books for a bit to get out of the reading slump. I have moments when I don't want to read about serious issues, usually if I've been dealing with a lot in my life. So I get both sides of the argument. I definitely do think that what all good books have in common is that they have deeper messages, whether the reader chooses to engage with them or not.

[@blehblehblehdracula]

I feel like people forget two things can be true at once and that's where a lot of issues spring from, honestly.

[@sagekay]

Editing to say before the rant: Gorgeous Gorgeous video, we absolutely Stan. Ok OG comment: Not only are books political but ART is political. Because humans are political. Anyone can read to escape, hell, I read to escape most of the time! But there is a difference between needing an escape and being completely ignorant to anything that random people deem “political”. I’m an American and I can speak for that this Election was a make or break situation for us. Doesn’t matter what side you’re on. For some people it wasn’t just a break, it was a shatter because they don’t feel safe in their home. Because let’s be SO CRYSTAL CLEAR: a lot of this election ran on who supports trans people, queer people, and the BIPOC people of not only america, but the rest of the world. So, yeah a lot of us are not feelings super hot about the result of this election! If you try to claim that you don’t want your safe space online to be political, that’s fine- but do that for yourself in silence. Life is politics babes. Politics affect how we eat, sleep, work, rest, and breathe. And ESPECIALLY what media we consume. If people claim they don’t want to be political LOUDLY that tells me which side of the spectrum they are. Period.

[@evetheseventh]

Not just shattered, it felt like betrayal. They have nothing to lose for now, until something happens and hits ‘me close to home. Hopefully they will realize they can’t be ignorant forever.

[@sc6658]

People really really hate dealing with this fact but everything is political to an extent. There’s a reason some books are banned and some are not.

[@orange_octopus_oo]

15:52 love the analogy! 😂🥰

[@pixieinx]

Not everything is for everyone which why I love A03 tag system because you can avoid the unnecessary discords when things are upfront about the target audience, but folks who are used for everything being available to em i n the outside world are shocked when they don’t have that same entitled catered to in the digital world. Everyone has their tribes and not all tribes are for everyone.

[@evetheseventh]

(Editing my comment bc somehow it’s hard to understand )I don’t have TikTok and just like you I’m neither American or lived in America (I don’t belong to either red or blue party), but we all know American politics impact goes beyond its boarders . I feel like a broken record from repeating myself for the past couple months it’s like talking to a wall at this point. YES reading is political, NO you cannot separate the art from the artist. Reading is escapism for me too but f$&@ it, if I have to spend hours to search the author their stands & values before I pick a book so let it be. I refuse to give my time, voice and money to someone racist with degraded values someone who vote against basic human right. There is no peace in ignorance because in my opinion that what some of these readers choose to be. It’s not reading in peace it’s reading in ignorance, we’re past the point of “it’s just a book it’s not that deep”. You can still enjoy reading without being ignorant about your surrounding. You can be a picky reader and still have unlimited reading materials.

[@aliciavelice3806]

I agree with you on modern books written in the present day. historical books are given a pass for me because it is a time capsule. I am not going to expect someone writing in the 1830s or so to be raging feminist, (I like raging feminists lol) the times would never have allowed for that. However Modern-day others like JK and such do not get that same pass she knows better and if she does not she should.

[@jadewalsh8354]

These are very interesting takes and differ from my own. I hope we can have a nice discussion even though our opinions differ without people being offended. Don't you think that we should have the right to choose whether or not we live in ignorance. After all, ignorance is bliss 😂. Just as you choose to do that background work and not support someone who does not morally align do you not think others should be afforded the same luxury of reading based on a blurb and if they are interested without feeding into the ins and outs of the author / singer / actor or whatever else it is. Just as it is your choice to do it, it is their choice not to, and that is just as valid a choice as your own... just different. 🙂

[@evetheseventh]

@@jadewalsh8354 sure, and this is coming from someone who choose to Ignore in the past. Also my interesting take goes beyond the election topic, racial and extremist behaviors included. Yes, it would be nice to pick a book without thinking if the author is racist or against human rights. THE WORLD IS UGLY AND WE WANT AN ESCAPE:( In theory you think there is no harms when reading without considering the author, but then they start recommend, hyping, and promoting that book. The aftermath is giving said author more voice and power. Just few months ago I was planning to reread a college romance favorite of mine, hell I was considering buying the new cover🥲 then saw multiple comments with proof that the author is racist plus more. I was shattered!! Oof it’s been a long time since I share my humble opinions but Lord knows I’m tired of people hyping ‘n promoting problematic authors … I need tea now 😮‍💨

[@evetheseventh]

@@aliciavelice3806 that would work I think ☺️ I was never into that woman works thankfully. Also try saying that you don’t like HP to the English department students and enjoy the looks 😂😂😂

[@jadewalsh8354]

​@eve.b5 I can understand that point and potentially promoting an individual who has harmful views (although what some consider harmful others do not and there is an argument that even those are valid even if we dont like them) I think if you have a platform in which you are potentially influencing others, it might be worth adding a disclaimer that you are not one to look at the morality of the authors that you read so people should do thier own research if they want. It is not really someone else's job to do research on your behalf when they do not claim to be an objective source of knowledge on the topic or a source of political influence. Who knows. Not me 😂

[@morethanyourbasics]

interesting. i haven't read a book in a minute. i had a rough year and books take a lot of energy and focus. I came across this video because i think i've been clicking more booktube videos and exploring potentially reading again soon. i find it funny that in different hobbies like makeup people say the same thing. Make up is just fun and they wash it off at the end of day...ok sure. but it's also pretty well known that darker skinned or really white skinned people are catered to least. Also with hair people say the same thing that a hair style is a hairstyle but we all know that some styles are not read equally on all people so it is inherently political on a black or brown body until all hair in their natural or culturally informed (locs etc) are accepted. Personally i think the "i just want to have fun" camp should increase their tolerance to others pain points. you can have your fun and not be ignorant to the world around you.

[@sweetrevenge47]

Although your take isn’t in response to the election, the current wave of “books aren’t political” IS in response to it. For many people the exclusion is a genuine means of protection because many people that voted a certain way tend to be hostile. They just don’t want to seem like the bad guy. There’s more nuance to my thoughts but I’m trying to type on an iPad vs a phone or real keyboard lol

[@UNSAMU3L]

Political issues are always going to be part of today's society. We can't js say oh books can't or shouldn't be political. Its always going to be there and it's a good thing bc ppl need to be educated abt it whether it's books, online, or irl

[@jadewalsh8354]

Hi, I am new to your channel, but I enjoy listening to your opinions, so I have just subscribed 🙂 I have never been on booktok as i dont love social media on the whole (which probably makes me sound way older than i am 🤷🏽‍♀️), but I am an avid reader of romance with a sprinkle of romantasy. I personally read for fun and enjoyment, so I am not here for any political take on the books i read as that is not what i consider to be entertainment. I also dont read books that lean very far into a political agenda. So trope talk is my jam 😂. That being said, i only watch book reviews that are catering to what i enjoy. It is mind baffling how entitled some people are to demand others adjust for them and bow to their views when they are intolerant of others. It would be funny if it didn't infrige on others' free speech on things that should really bear no consequences to discuss. Discourse seems to be a thing of the past in a lot of spaces, especially around politics, which is a shame as differences are part of what makes us human. So like you i think we should go where we belong and leave others to enjoy thier space. I firmly believe we shouldn't yuck someones elses yum😜. If its yucky to you ... keep it pushing.

[@PQ_497]

... there are 4 million (idk) books published every year... if you want a political one, pick one, if you don't, then don't... Mad people need to be told not to engage with content that they know they won't enjoy. People are too bored.

[@gabrielleduplessis7388]

I watched a video yesterday that explained how everything around us is a form of propaganda. Some of it is good and some of it is bad. While some books may not have political systems, I do agree with you that each one discusses some form of social issue. I feel spaces shouldn’t be overly political. I have seen people make politics a huge part of the identity that if you disagree with them to a point, they cut you from your life. So I get talking about different perspectives and caring about what happens in the world, but we should not let politics take over to the point you lose friendships, jobs, and relationships over it. That doesn’t help anyone. And regarding the book banning comments, I hate that people feel so entitled to censor anything they disagree with and I pity them because they were taught to hate everything.

[@evetheseventh]

Was it Leah’s video?? I wish it reach for more audience

[@gabrielleduplessis7388]

@ yep. I just saw her pop up a day or two ago. Do agree her video needs a bigger audience as well. Hope I see more videos from her.

[@corsivapurpleus]

I really appreciate your insightful distinction between people wanting to talk about books in a political way online vs an "apolitical" way. I think this has been missing from the conversation and connected a lot of dots for me. I have seen a lot of videos where either side of the argument misses the other and they go in circles around each other. Many of them are arguing about different things. I think that one side is arguing if books are inherently political vs inherently apolitical. My understanding of the other side's argument is they don't want to talk/think about the political aspects of a book, but none of their points support books themselves being apolitical. I think wording is important and these are two different things. But that's short form, internet discourse for you, isn't it? In my opinion, everything is political. Government, society, and history impact and are impacted by all aspects of our lives. Therefore, all aspects of our lives are political. However, I think most people don't view their lives through a political lens all the time. There is a privilege in being able to turn this off and how much a person will automatically be thinking about politics in their day-to-day lives. It is my hope that we can reach a place in the future where everyone has the privilege take time to "not be political" if they choose to do so. In our current world, I think it is important to engage with politics critically and unpack our role in them, but I don't expect everyone to integrate this into their hobbies/free time all of the time.

[@Meroose]

Ok, I've just arrived on your channel via this video and I'm already a fan! Thank you for such clear and thoughtful words. If only more people had such common sense... Oh, and of course, I subscribe. 😊

[@slick.biscuit]

First of all, I would just like to say that I very much appreciate your nuanced outlook on this topic. I would also like to preface my comment by saying that I am not on TikTok at all. I engage with the book side of KZbin and Instagram. I am not of the opinion that politics should be "banned" in book, and I do not deny the fact that many books have themes of real life issues and moral standings. I have appreciation for some books that touch on these topics. That being said, I think there is a time and place for books to discuss such things. For example, if someone is reading a fantasy novel, where the world, characters, and storyline are all obviously fictional, one might not expect to find a real world political message in said book. Some books can have their own pollical messaging about storyline of the book itself (which again can be fictional), which I find to be separate from discussing political messages of the real world. There are other books that exist, where that is the focal point of the writing, if that is something that you're seeking out. In my *opinion*, fantasy isn't typically the genre for that. (Again, separating politics of a fantasy world vs politics of the real world.) In my own anecdotal experience, when I've read fantasy novels where the author does put in a real world political message, it almost takes me out of the fictional universe that I've been emersed in, and makes me overly conscious of the fact that I am not in this fictional universe, whether it's a political message that I agree with or not. It's just simply not what I was expecting to find when picking up a particular book. As far as creators not welcoming a certain demographic of people on their pages, that is obviously within the right of the owner of that account or page. My problem comes in when it's a creator who has never previously discussed politics, or made it known that their page is place where these topics are going to be had. It's still within their right to say "I don't want you here", but to be surprised that you have followers that may have different political views than you, especially when your channel has never been politically focused, and *ESPECIALLY* if you have a large following, just comes off as naive to me. If someone has 50K subscribers/followers, and you make book related content and have never expressed political views on your page, people on all sides of the spectrum who enjoy books, are most likely to follow you. To assume that all of your followers just so happen to be exactly aligned with you, when that's never been the focal point of your content, seems silly to me. I also don't particularly appreciate the gatekeeping of "If your political view is 'x, y, or z' than you're not allowed to enjoy this author, or this genre, (or even) listen to this certain type of music." I think that mentality will only continue to divide people further. Not all of us would like to live in an echo chamber of people who think exactly like us. In fact, not doing so is how to get people to see your perspective, and vise versa. All of that said, I thoroughly enjoy the way you've conducted people to have civil discussions of differing view points, well done on that!

[@lexusklein9726]

I understand where people are coming from but reading is subjective with almost every book out there having themes related to politics. As well as within the community, we have people that don't just read romance or fantasy, we have people who enjoy books about politics, wars and public figures. Why are they not allowed to talk about their views and books the same as any other readers, because it's not as much as an excuse for others? They are readers like everyone else and deserve a space to safely talk about the books they read and amplify important conversations, it doesn't have to be only fantasy and romance on booktok. Be nice.

[@GrandArchPriestOfTheAlgorithm]

To a lot of people, political stories where the "good side" wins is escapism to many. The irony is that a lot of people that say they "don't want politics in their stories" actually do. They just want all stories to have politics they personally agree with.

[@morethanyourbasics]

That said "liberal" views tend to be more tolerant of multiple view points where as "conservatives" tend to have that hard line in the sand. Eg. For some families being gay or dating outside of your race = kicked out and dissowned. However, voting red or being against abortions doesn't necessarily mean you are just as forcefully removed from the family. (white) Conservatives, even if they've caused harm to those around them, aren't shunned out of their communities in the same way that marginalized people are. When it comes to books and Americans I feel like the loudest people being aggressive are probably the most conservative and privilege. Its easy to be loud and wrong when you lack any consequences. They have the numbers and probably feel better making the app reflect what they believe booktok should look like rather than curating their follows

[@bluecannibaleyes]

LOL I can’t wrap my brain around how someone could actually truly believe this. There are COUNTLESS videos of liberals saying that they are disowning their family for voting red and/or disagreeing with them on certain issues. They do it literally all the time and encourage others to do it as well. I’ve even experienced this sort of behavior myself from some of my left-leaning friends.

[@morethanyourbasics]

@ the amount of people isolated from family, friends, or their community because they aren't straight, chose to marry or date BIPOC, or not be Christian is overwhelming and is moving the culture. elections do divide people and liberals do have limits but for you to not be able to wrap your brain around what I said would be obtuse. when liberals say "I believe people should have a right to their body" they don't ALL mean that everyone should have an abortion nor are they talking about their own ethics but conservatives generally mean and stand by EVERYONE should not be allowed to have an abortion especially when it comes to the law AND they seek out punishment to repremand people break said laws. Same with books. they don't want their child reading a particular book and that's not just their house or their library, it their state, their country as far as they can reach liberals may block conservatives but they arent doing it equally or to the same severe degree as conservatives because there's the most diversity. a black person who's low income may fear conservatives for different reasons than white highly educated investment bankers and feel confident no one is looking to write laws or job rules that would sneakily eliminate them in the workplace or social environment

[@AeroPortJoga]

Even my cup of tea, or coffee, is political. I don't need to ponder over it each time I drink it but shielding myself from reality will make me an ignorant and detached, self-centered 'genZeer'. I agree with you, some of us at least can CHOOSE to watch that video or not. (That choice in itself is political as well 😂)

[@melodymagickal6508]

You can only read a book for comfort of there are not external forces not knocking down your door to confiscate them.... Or putting them back in the back office to try and embarrass you from requesting them (which happened in my high school with lgbtqa+ books - that they were aware of). Of course those that wanted the lgbtqa books to be in the librarian's office didn't actually read any books...

[@jamesmarcelle1]

Thank you for this video

[@alyssavermette]

Thank you Shelley for breaking this down I went on family vacation and wasn’t on booktok for almost a week and came back and didn’t know what was happening and why they were fighting 😂😂😂 I was overwhelmed and just decided to log off at that point as I wasn’t getting involved and was waiting until someone with a better understanding of what all went down made a video so I can clearly make my own decisions on things without all the noise and chaos that surrounds issues. (I have autism and have trouble processing things when they are overwhelming) Watching yours and others videos have taught me how to interact with others online and about internet culture so I’ve been able to join different spaces online and made friends in the book community both irl and online and I wanted to thank you for that both for the clarity and the knowledge 🩵

[@s.ajanaku8488]

Where are the glasses from? Link please ❤

[@markreadsbo]

Books are political and political, the book that made me a reader is the Eagle Has Landed by Jack Higgins. A war time thriller that gave me different perspectives. So what your saying is if someone has different views than you, don't engage with them. If that's the case nobody changes their position. If you follow someone and likes their content,who votes one way in one election, are you going to follow if back if they vote your way next time. However if its a different outcome if they are overtly political in their reviews in ways you do not agree with all the time then stop following them. And if ticktock etc is a not what you need, you can take a break or change who or what you watch permanently. So for the long comment. Remember their is a lot of grey in the World.

[@moniquecharles5926]

This is one of the many reasons why I hate BookTok! I don't even have an account on that app! If BookTok or Litature isn't political, then: 1. Why are there book bans even a thing? 2. Why aren't they more diverse authors getting more recognition than white authors, regardless of popularity? 3. Why is the literature world so Eurocentric and limits diverse voices of all backgrounds? 4. Why do people think diverse literary existed since 2020 if it was already a thing for decades? 5. Why is the publishing world so selective towards authors of all backgrounds and intersections while choosing white authors the most who don't even have to try? I'm just tired of the anti-intellectualism and the poor excuses to not listen and learn to oppress minorities.

[@Heothbremel]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@latoyaraymondbolt8279]

I really like how you look and your energy. You seem to have a warm personality but... The caption you have in the videos gives me a headache. I thought of muting the video and reading the words but it's not as great as hearing you talk. I think you are catering to persons who would benefit from that style but I really am beyond sad because I want to watch you and I subbed so I see your wonderful discussion topics that I really want to hear but while my eyes want to watch you as you speak since you are so very engaging, the captions keep pulling my eyes and I end up having eyestrain pain or headache. How can you help me with that?

[@veerow6035]

"Inherent" indicates that politics is an essential characteristic of books. It is not. I mostly read misery lit and memoirs, but I guess I'd be on the "escapism" side of the argument. I wouldn't call myself privileged at all. I'm just through my overly political phase. It was a miserable state of hypervigilance and policing, a cognitive distortion. That's why I do not use Tiktok or X. It seems like those are platforms wherein cognitive distortions are normalized. In general, I think more spaces should be free of politics if possible. And that's to protect the mental health of the general public.

[@bluecannibaleyes]

I totally agree with everything you said here. I don’t use either of those platforms either, for the same reason. I think one of the problems is that many people see this as an all-or-nothing thing, and it’s that idea that ALL books MUST be ‘inherently’ political and that those who say they aren’t are somehow saying that NO books are political. Which is an overly black and white way of seeing it. Some are, some aren’t. And some are more heavy handed about it than others. I also don’t think it’s ‘privileged’ to want to use a hobby to escape and not want to engage in politics. What’s actually privileged is seeing your political views reflected in modern media like books and being able to openly discuss your views on various platforms without censorship. Contrary to what some people here seem to believe, the world will keep on turning regardless of whether or not they choose to engage in politics.

[@OoLaLaFrenchGirl]

Honestly, I don’t care about the political opinions of others on BookTok. I read to escape all the daily craziness. I just want to discuss and read books without all of the divisiveness.

[@TimeTravelReads]

Since to you, reading is only useful for escapism, can I ask you some odd questions? Were you taught whole novels in school, or just excerpts? Were you taught that fiction is based on reality and how to connect the two? Were you taught that reading for lifelong learning is important, or that reading is only useful for escapism?

[@OoLaLaFrenchGirl]

@ Sure you may ask, but keep in mind that I never stated reading is only useful for escapism. I’m sick and tired of everyone else’s political opinions and I simply don’t want to hear about them now. We’ve been inundated with it for many years. In school we studied both entire novels and excerpts. It’s common sense that fiction is reality based. Learning goes hand in hand with reading whether or not one reads fiction or non-fiction. Reading is also a personal endeavor that one can choose to do for whatever they want to get out of it. No one owns the rights to or reasons for reading.

[@TimeTravelReads]

@OoLaLaFrenchGirl Thanks for responding. I'm trying to understand what I'm seeing. I'm guessing that if someone doesn't want to hear about political opinions, they don't want to hear about political themes in novels, or anything about history books, even if the reviewer didn't share their own political opinions?

[@OoLaLaFrenchGirl]

@ not true at all. I just hate having everyone shove their personal agendas down my throat. There are always going to be political themes in books and that’s fine. It’s the attitude that I must conform to one ideology or another that I find distasteful. There should be no gatekeeping when it comes to reading.

[@TimeTravelReads]

@OoLaLaFrenchGirl Interesting. Thank you.