I have a question for the group. I am writing into one of my stories a couple of characterers that are racist and use unacceptable names for all races. They would very likely use those terms in actuality. I'm not real comfortable putting that in. I had not planned on going with something like that.
I had some feedback that if it builds out the characters well then put it in. Spoiler alert, I also have these people get what they deserve in the end. Thoughts on this? Thanks
I had some feedback that if it builds out the characters well then put it in
I used the unusable/unsayable racial epithet twice in one of my stories because it was a way to show how a specific character thought, and a way to convey the feeling of a member of that minority group.
I have used other less charged words when appropriate, but I tend to use them in a limited way, as the way I see it, once a character says them, everyone has the picture, and there is no need to repeat them.
In the end, if the words fit the character and the story, I'd use them however you felt appropriate, but know that at some point, you'll likely turn off your reader rather than shock them.