Jania Ashlynn
As of late, several older James Bond novels have been called into question over the language that they contain. Some readers are finding a bit of the word choice offensive.
Videos by Rare
Ian Fleming Publications has decided to re-release all of the spy-thriller novels after they have been reviewed by sensitivity professionals. There are certain characters and phrases featured in the novels that some readers today may find offensive like “P-ssy Galore” and “Dr. Holly Goodhead.” These terms and others have been flagged by the experts for offensive language.
Young Eyes
This isn’t a new concept. There are several other books that have been flagged or removed from curriculums and school libraries because parents and administrations believe that the content is too much for the reader, especially if they’re young. To Kill A Mockingbird is a good example. There has been debate over whether or not this book, with its strong language and mature themes, should be included in schools. Most schools have chosen to remove it in the last two years. Some parents are rejoicing while others are attaching racial bias to the decision.
The Bond novels contain the language that people are complaining about, including n-slurs for African American individuals and the presentation of black characters. Sensitivity experts have also modified the sex scenes in the books.
Warnings
Other phrases are remaining in the novel, like slur-adjacent references to east Asian individuals. Some other phrases like “blithering women” and “man’s work” are staying in the new prints of the manuscripts. There are also references to homosexuality, calling it a “stubborn disability.” So far, that phrase has stayed in the reviewed reprint as well.
Each new copy is set to maintain a disclaimer, warning readers of the mature or potentially offensive themes.
“This book was written at a time when terms and attitudes which might be considered offensive by modern readers were commonplace.”
