cupiscent
Sage
It's somewhat disingenuous to say "the reader is reading it wrong!" if you haven't made a genuine and sincere effort to represent accurately on the page what the reader should be reading.
It's not respectful to say "I'll do as I like with your culture regardless of what your culture wishes". Especially not when you are on the side with more power in the exchange. There are also ways to comment on a culture, even critically, while still respecting, understanding and considering context and reasoning within a culture. Indeed, it's less valid criticism if it doesn't consider context.
And if a culture in a fantasy world is recognisable - and especially if the author knows they are borrowing from real-world cultures - then a little consideration of whether you're being respectful and consistent or just using another culture as a buffet of exoticness is called for.
I am not saying don't do it. But showing consideration and respect is always polite.
It's not respectful to say "I'll do as I like with your culture regardless of what your culture wishes". Especially not when you are on the side with more power in the exchange. There are also ways to comment on a culture, even critically, while still respecting, understanding and considering context and reasoning within a culture. Indeed, it's less valid criticism if it doesn't consider context.
And if a culture in a fantasy world is recognisable - and especially if the author knows they are borrowing from real-world cultures - then a little consideration of whether you're being respectful and consistent or just using another culture as a buffet of exoticness is called for.
I am not saying don't do it. But showing consideration and respect is always polite.
Last edited: