Reflections on Rarely Read Masterpieces: 'Fifty Shades of Grey'

During my many years in the realm of literature and academic pursuits, I have come across some books that I have reason to believe I would never read. Among them, the novel 'Fifty Shades of Grey' stands out as a particularly infamous one. Although I have slightly perused a few pages of it, I find it unlikely that I would ever delve deeply into it or its sequels. This decision is not rooted in prudishness or a sense of literary snobbishness. Instead, it seems that the explicit content is so off-putting to me that engaging with it feels more like a chore than an intellectual exercise.

Personal Literacy Preferences

My literary tastes are quite varied and inclusive. I have read books labeled as 'transgressive' or 'controversial' such as 'The Story of O' and 'Lady Chatterley’s Lover'. I can also indulge in my guilty pleasures, which include works by authors like Danielle Steele and Dan Brown. However, 'Fifty Shades of Grey' and its sequels feel like an entirely different beast. The particular type of graphic content it includes seems both unnecessary and gratuitous, making the reading experience feel more like a necessary evil.

A Historical Angle: 'Maurice'

Another book that comes to mind is 'Maurice' by E.M. Forster. I stumbled upon this book through the informative lens of historical author and historian Lucy Worsley in her book 'A Very British Romance'. 'Maurice' is often referred to as the first known gay novel in British history, and it deals with themes of love, societal norms, and the struggle to reconcile personal desires with societal expectations. Despite this fascinating premise, I am hesitant to read it due to the explicit nature of the story and the difficulty in connecting with the characters' perspectives.

Why Bad Reading for Some is Good for Others

It is important to recognize that literary taste is highly subjective. What one person finds readable and engaging, another might find distasteful and difficult to endure. In the case of 'Fifty Shades of Grey', for instance, some readers find it thrilling and groundbreaking, while for me, it feels like a roadblock to enjoyment. This is precisely why it's crucial to respect and understand the diverse tastes and reading preferences of individuals. It's not about right or wrong, but about finding what resonates with each person's unique sensibilities.

Ultimately, the decision to read or not read a book like 'Fifty Shades of Grey' or 'Maurice' comes down to personal comfort levels and what one finds enjoyable. While I admire the courage of those who embrace these challenging texts, my choice to avoid them is based on a desire to maintain a reading experience free from distressing content. Literature should be a journey of pleasure, an escape, and a way to learn and grow, not an imposition or a source of discomfort. In the end, the world of books is vast and diverse, offering something for every taste and preference.