Ruby Wilson
asked
Rick Riordan:
I love your books but I was just wondering how you write about mythology in present day without angering people of all religions?
Rick Riordan
Well, I don't always succeed at that! As you may have noticed if you've read my books, I tend to be irreverent and satirical, and I often enjoy pointing out the absurdities and oddities about the myths we've inherited from ancient times. I love myths. I think they are beautiful stories. But one of the things I love about them is how weird they can be. One thing I try to do is stick to the mythologies I grew up with that influenced my own life. I consider Greek, Roman, Norse, Celtic, even Egyptian as fair game for me personally, because they are such a part huge part of the literary canon that formed me as a writer. It's impossible to major in English literature, as I did, without repeatedly seeing those myths. For mythologies that are farther away from my own experience and culture, I've come to understand that it's not my place to write about them, and definitely not my place to satirize. I'll leave that decision to other writers. Also, as you may know, early in my career I (boneheadedly) had no idea neo-paganism was a thing, and that people still worship the Greek, Norse, Celtic gods, etc. today. Now that I am aware of that, I try to be more respectful when I talk about these stories since I recognize that they are sacred texts for some. Personally, I just want to introduce the stories to young readers in a way that makes them laugh and curious to know more. I've found that humor is a good way to do that. The sacred and spiritual aspects I will leave to others to explore, but I am not going to tell people how to be spiritual. Goodness knows all religions have their share of bizarre stories! There's no way to please everyone, but I hope that approach is acceptable and understandable to the majority of my readers.
More Answered Questions
Raghav
asked
Rick Riordan:
Do you plan on bringing Sadie or Carter back? I loved them sooo much! :). By the way, I just finished reading the Tower of Nero, and I want to ask, will Meg return? Thanks for the books you've written so far! Best of luck for the next ones, Raghav P.S. I am very excited for the Chalice of Gods
Isobel Miller
asked
Rick Riordan:
Some time ago, I heard about alternative versions of some of your later books with any and all LGBTQ+ material removed, for instance, Nico isn't gay and he and Will don't get together. As appalling as the idea is, I'm actually kind of curious about it, and I was wondering, do you know anything about it?
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