BookSmuggler says:

There's been a lot of debate on a number of sites about how ChickLit is ruining literature - both in general and for women authors in particular.

Although I have read my fair share of bad, formulaic ChickLit, I've also read a number of titles that, even if they weren't great literature, were quirky, fun, and yes, well-written. Am I the only one?

#1 Posted 1 years ago

ptero27 says:

It does always make me giggle, because it sounds so dirty. Is ChickLit the equivalent of a ChickFlick? Is ChickLit usually set in a Contemporary time frame? I must admit, I think I have read a number of ChickLit titles, but have never considered how to define the genre. Good topic!

#2 Posted 1 years ago

Jaemi says:

I don't know how one genre could ruin literature all by itself. There are formulaic books in every realm of reading, and enough readers out there that it probably all evens out.

#3 Posted 1 years ago

mnoo says:

As fun as the term is, it's a shame how it seems to categorize most women authors under one frivolous-sounding category. It seems that a lot of books are marketed as chick lit - with the way the covers are designed and the back cover blurb written etc. - since it probably sells well as a genre. But underneath it, there is a wide variety of authors sometimes writing about quite deep and difficult subject matters. Of course there's the froth as well, and we all need some froth from time to time, but there are quite a few women authors who are brilliant writers and deal with a multitude of issues in their books. I suppose what definines ChickLit (or the only feeling the name of the genre *should* evoke) is that the subject matters are probably more close to women's heart.

But as for ChickLit 'ruining literature', give me a break. There are good and bad books in every genre. There are formulaic books in every genre. Try reading any Dan Brown novel and take out the names of the characters and the venue, and you have exactly the same plot.

#4 Posted 1 years ago

texassting says:

I agree. Who's to say what "great Literature" is anyway. everyone has different opinions and if it makes you happy, and helps you to relax, or escape (or do whatever you want it to do) then just enjoy it for what it is. I personally love chicklit but i also appreciate other works that make me think and are maybe a little deeper when it comes to life experiences. :)

#5 Posted 10 months ago