Employing sensitivity readers isn’t new, however, the recent republishing of Roald Dahl’s books after censorship, removing words like “fat” and “crazy,” has stirred controversy in the publishing world. While some are in favor of taking that extra step, others believe it hinders the freedom of speech about sensitive issues.
Sensitivity readers are becoming an important part of the publishing process in recent times. Their work has progressed from children’s books to work on adult fiction and autobiographies as well. These recent developments highlight the shift in cultural dynamics as well.
The rise of sensitivity readers reflects social evolution
A gentle reminder that sensitivity readers are:
•people with marginalized identities
•fact/authenticity checkers, not censors
•an incredibly helpful resource on the path towards not doing harm to the communities you represent in your stories
— SaltAndSageBooks (@saltandsagebook) March 8, 2023
Literature often mirrors cultural values and taboos. Therefore, in a time when public voice is stronger than ever, sensitivity readers are becoming an integral part of publishing. They are usually freelancers who are either part of a minority group or expert researchers.
Sensitivity readers go through a manuscript and suggest areas of content that can be problematic. They thoroughly inspect the books for any stereotypes or negative choices of words to create a piece that is inclusive in just the right way.
The people engaged in this profession describe it as a way of optimizing the content. The changes make the information acceptable, knowledgeable, and inclusive. All of these factors are an important part of social change led by Generation Z, who are praised for being vocal against the existing prejudices in society.
However, many authors find the role that sensitivity readers play similar to censorship. They believe it whitewashes the social darkness, prejudices, and taboos.
Does employing sensitivity readers’ services show a form of censorship?
Take yourself back to your schooldays with an Enid Blyton paperback.
Most are the originals from a time before ‘sensitivity readers’ told us what we could and couldn’t read🙄 pic.twitter.com/yStJOE8K6u
— Belfast Books (@BelfastBooks) March 18, 2023
One of the main arguments of people who are against the rise of sensitivity readers is that a creative product that is thoroughly edited forms an image of society that is devoid of its shortcomings. They also argue that sensitive literature may create a false historical image for next-generation’s readers.
According to The Guardian, Kate Clanchy shares that adults are more capable of not reading a book that upsets them so their books can contain difficult ideas. She faced the sensitivity readers’ controversy firsthand over her memoir, which was accused of racism and insensitivity.
In 2017, Lionel Shiver complained about the readers in an interview with The Guardian, calling them “sensitivity police.” She argued that the anxiety about hurting others’ feelings hinders spontaneity and creativity.
Opened a novel to discover this. Would this not have been the sensible way to deal with the Roald Dahl issues?
Ironically, published by Penguin. pic.twitter.com/LPNX1lZ701— Miss Lowe (@MissF_Lowe) March 5, 2023
However, the authors who have experience with sensitivity readers praise them and their work. An American author Adele Holmes spoke favorably about sensitivity readers after taking their help with her first book, Winter’s Reckoning.
She shared with the AFP that the reader was able to point out the aspect that hinted towards white privilege. Moreover, the reader suggested using the word “coil” in the description of the hair of a black character instead of silky.
On the other hand, netizens’ prompt wouldn’t a warning be better rather than rewriting classics? They argue that the benchmarks of current sensitivity are bound to change tomorrow as well. Therefore, we must focus on producing content for today instead of altering past creations.
What is your opinion on the change in the publishing world? Let us know in the comments below. You can also follow Spiel Times for more interesting articles exploring cultural and social media trends.
