Book Junkies discussion

I've noticed in a lot of books I'm reading these days that authors are using an abundance of real cultural references by citing popular TV shows, songs, celebrities, etc. Sometimes, this is fine. But sometimes it seems to detract from the story. That's just me.

So I wanted to put it out there to other readers/writers: are cultural references in fiction good or bad in your opinion?

I like them. It strengthens the setting and mood for me

I don't read too many fiction books but, in my opinion, I think cultural references are annoying to some degree. It really depends on the reference, I guess. I can't explain it really. I'd prefer if the references weren't modern if there has to be cultural references. I'd rather see earlier stuff like classic films or bands mentioned over anything modern like Glee or Lady Gage. For some reason those more modern references come off more lame than they should to me.

I agree Tiffany.

But in 20 years these will be old references which can set the mood for the current period

I think it really depends if it feels like a forced reference or if it is giving context to a character, setting or event. I don't mind the latter but am put off by the former.

I absolutely agree. I've even noted it myself. It always felt like the author is trying way too hard to seem relatable and modern.

It's just always rubbed me the wrong way.

Terri wrote: "But in 20 years these will be old references which can set the mood for the current period"

I definitely agree with this - I actually love cultural references from the classic pulp fiction stories, as it really gives me that much more of the time period and what was truly going on and in the eye of the public at the time.


♥,
Cat at Galaxy Press