Controversial Material - What is good/bad and in what situations?

[Casey]

I'm curious as to whether it's good or bad to have a controversial society as your books setting. In my prequel series, there is no such thing as marriage in that world, only becoming mates. Also, the age for anyone, male or female, to be considered an legal adult is 13, mirroring a medieval society. Is this too much controversy, or is it merely something that will invoke thought and reflection? Also, the governing body is an Oligarchy, made up of those selected by the former members of said Oligarchy to take their position. What differentiates this society from say, most medieval societies, is that males and females have designated, but not set roles - females can be part of said Oligarchy, work, fight in war, etc. Am I going too far with some of this, or have I hit a medium?

[Jim]

Casey wrote: "I'm curious as to whether it's good or bad to have a controversial society as your books setting. In my prequel series, there is no such thing as marriage in that world, only becoming mates. Also..."

Marriage is an institution. As with any institution, attitudes toward it change over time and within different cultures. I personally know couples that had elaborate religious matrimonial ceremonies and were divorced within ten years. I know others who have lived together quite happily for decades and appear to be still very much in love who never bothered getting married. By the way, I was married for 35 years.

Regarding the age when one attains adulthood, I have known 13 year-old adults and 60 year-old children. Age has nothing to do with it. Behavior and maturity determine whether or not one is an adult.

So Casey, write what you feel you should write. Don't worry about others' opinions. Some will love your work and some will not as with anything else.

I wish you success.

[Casey]

I see. I was technically concerned, but in truth, I do not care if I offend people. I was merely curious as to the reception it would receive.

[Arie]

I have never seen controversy hurt a book's sales yet. Seriously. Bring on the controversy. You may have only a 3.5 star average but if anyone starts ranting about you online, you'll be read and who cares about the average. You've got to be damn good to make it work. But you have to be damn good no matter what, so you might as well have controversy too.

[Casey]

Arie wrote: "I have never seen controversy hurt a book's sales yet. Seriously. Bring on the controversy. You may have only a 3.5 star average but if anyone starts ranting about you online, you'll be read and wh..."

To quote Tigura21, maker of the Smash King machinema -
"If this episode sparks some unintentional controversy... I guess I'm doing something right."

[Alyson]

I really don't think you will have any problems.