I have encountered my fair share of famous books that failed to reach their supposed greatness. I might be disappointed or confused as to why they’re “great,” but I’m always ready to share my thoughts on why I didn’t like the book. Everyone’s entitled to their opinion (even if they’re wrong) but some of them are harder to express than others. So I thought I’d share some of the tactics I’ve learned over the years for dealing with the sensitive topic of differing opinions.
This is not a comprehensive guide, so if these tips fail to help you…sorry.
Examples are King
No matter how pithy it is, you shouldn’t simply say, “This book makes my sewage look like art.” You should point out its poor grammar, the stupid choices of characters, the lackluster plot, the bland characterizations, etc. Provide pertinent quotes, show your logical thought process, and compare it to books you view as superior. Make it so someone who still disagrees with you can at least understand where you’re coming from.
Be Mindful of the Fans
Fans are great. They also suck. Say one offensive thing and posses ambush you from all sides. To avoid this—or at least cover your butt—start out by saying you see why they love this book. Admit that it has merits; applaud the fans’ dedication. You don’t actually have to mean your words so long as they sound relatively believable. It’s about making yourself appear reasonable and nice, even if it’s not completely true. Stay away from outright insulting them and you should be okay. But if you still feel unprotected…
All for Opinions, Opinions for All
To pacify the potential mob you have to make it PAINFULLY CLEAR that what you’re saying is your opinion. It doesn’t matter how many other people are on your side, you have to constantly remind the detractors that there are two sides to every argument and you happen to bat for the “wrong” side. Use phrases like “I think,” “In my opinion,” “The way I see it,” etc. to sell your non-confrontational side. And then hit ‘em with the facts.
Try to Stay Calm and Clear
I know it’s hard to keep a cool head in the face of atrocious prose, but whipping yourself or your reader into a crazed frenzy will not help your case. Dial back the swearing, ALL CAPS, and insults. Be firm, but kind. If you’re writing out your thoughts make sure you proofread for any sort of error, let it marinate a day or two, and maybe get a friend to critique your tone and presentation. You’re defending your side against potential hostile forces, so it’s best to look sane and literate.
Make it Funny
Humor softens most offenses. You can be surrounded by people who disagree with you but if you make them laugh, the pitchforks will lower. Throw out a joke or gif, compare the plot to your gym habits, say it made you want to resume algebra classes. If you paint yourself as incredibly likable, they may forgive your viewpoint.
Of course, humor is subjective and could just as easily insult as entertain, so be mindful of that possibility and choose your words carefully.
Don’t be Afraid
I know facing the horde doesn’t instill endless confidence. But you shouldn’t be scared to go against the grain. When it comes to fiction—or art in general—you will see every type of opinion, so that leaves plenty of room for yours. In the end, you’ve got as much right as anyone else to share your thoughts about some prose. Have at it.
OR…
Toss the Grenade and Laugh
Niceness has its place. But when you want to get your point across to the masses, you don’t prance around the bush. You get out your chainsaw and cut a path. Don’t apologize, don’t add disclaimers, and don’t bow to people with poor judgment. Say it like it is and if they have no convincing counter-argument, stand your ground. Others will agree with you and they’re more important than those who won’t be convinced, mollified or shut down.
Go ahead. Be bold. You know you want to.
How do you trash popular books? Any of these tips helpful? Let me know.