Letter from David
Hi Todd,
I need some more advice. I’ve reached the point where I kind of need to know what sort of sensitive language can be used in a book. Can you recommend a source for guidlines? I’m assuming it depends some on what the intended reader/audience is. There are several, I’m sure. Is there a good place to find out by definition what those are and what is acceptable there?
David
Hmm, David,
I’m not sure what you’re getting at. If you’re talking about language suitable for a YA (Young Adult), then the rules are pretty much to use common sense — no swearing, no explicitly sexual scenes, no disobeying adults unless the adults have proven themselves to be clearly unreasonable.
Elsewise, the best place to look is in stories similar to the one you’re writing. Also, if you’re uncomfortable, you can be certain your audience will be uncomfortable.
Also, don’t forget that a first draft is the place to make mistakes — an editor can love your writing but not your swearing.
In fact, Mum once received a book that she thought was good — except for all the swearing. She wrote the writer and told her, and the writer re-edited — and sold.
I hope that helps.
— Todd