Okay, so when it comes to writing, I tend to write what I feel. I let the story pull from my head what it will. That includes the language of the book. You see, when I am writing a character, I know everything about them. How they dress, how they look, how they feel, what makes them tick… and yes, even how they express themselves. With that being said, sometimes my characters use colorful language. It’s who they are. I do not write Christian Literature. I do not write any religious material for that matter. I never claimed to nor will I ever claim to. My characters are not priests (well one was… and in keeping with character he never, ever swore).We don’t expect someone who say, works in a factory with all males (Me! Me! Me!) to use sweet language, now do we? Or a member of a street gang – you expect all hearts and roses coming out of his mouth? God, I sure hope you answered NO to that question. I really, really do. Because if you didn’t, you might as well quit reading this post right now. I mean it. Close it out without reading another word. Because before this post is over I am absolutely sure I will offend you (assuming, of course, I haven’t managed to do that already).

Here’s the thing. I understand some people are sensitive when it comes to what they consider foul language. To me, foul language is just a state of mind. They are just words which reside in a big bucket. I pull ‘em out and use them as the situation merits. I mean, let’s face it, saying “awe fudge” just doesn’t have the same impact as saying “awe fuck”. And the gang member I spoke of earlier would have his ass handed to him if he busted out with an “oh poop”. But… I know not everyone is on-board with that particular sentiment. So… in real life, when I am talking to the easily offended, I realize this and tone it down for them out of respect. I mean, I don’t go up to a person at work that I don’t know and drop the F-Bomb on them right away. I check ‘em out. See how they are. See if they are a delicate flower or a hardened factory rat. And then I speak to them in a manner which works for both of us. I adapt to the company I am in and the situation I am in. I don’t ever force people to listen to a string of obscenities when I know it offends them.

However, when it comes to writing, I feel very differently. Of course I don’t want to offend anyone (or maybe I do, the jury is still out on that one… LOL). But listen folks, if you get offended by what an author has written, PUT THE BOOK DOWN. STOP READING. Walk away. You don’t have to keep reading. No one is holding a fricking gun to your head. And for God’s sake, don’t belittle the author in a public forum because the author doesn’t conform to your own set of personal beliefs. Put the fucking book down and walk the hell away. I’ll go on with my life and you go on with yours. And by all means, if my language offends you, don’t read my stuff ever again. Please. Sheesh.

Whew. There. I feel better now 