Literature – the sounding board for fresh ideas, discussions on morality, and glances into untapped worlds – is becoming one of today’s largest controversies. Now, in a world concentrated on growth and evolution, books exploring diverse perspectives and complex topics like race, politics, sexuality, and freedom are being censored. Banning books won’t protect anyone, as many people suggest, and will do more harm than good. Choosing to censor past realities that don’t conform to today’s expectations cannot be a decision society has the power to dictate. Historical events and lessons taught through these books are not as far in the past as we think; what we forget, we could be doomed to repeat.
Animal Farm by George Orwell
George Orwell’s Animal Farm is a novella that introduces readers to classic literature while critiquing power, corruption, and inequality in society. Its deeper themes of political corruption, specifically looking at dictatorship in the Soviet Union, provide an in-depth look into society’s power dynamics through an engaging plot and distinct characters. It has been banned in various areas due to its exposure of the manipulation of fascist governments and authoritative leadership practices.
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
The Handmaid’s Tale portrays a chillingly attainable reality by showcasing the indoctrination of humanity into a patriarchal society through the eyes of a “handmaid.” Margaret Atwood’s classic remains essential in understanding what it means to be a powerless woman trapped in a totalitarian regime. However, the fear of facing Atwood’s vivid depictions of pain, suffering, and power imbalances led to its banning in many states.
Beloved by Toni Morrison
Beloved by Toni Morrison is a literary work of art, with eloquent prose, a unique perspective on motherhood, and a heartbreaking portrayal of slavery post-Civil War. Readers watch the conflicting effects of a mysterious woman, Beloved, entering the lives of mother and daughter, Sethe and Denver, and relearn what it means to love unconditionally. Unfortunately, Morrison’s high level of violence and the presence of lurid sexual acts throughout its pages has spurred the banning of Beloved throughout the country.
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
Of Mice and Men is an emotional novel that explores themes of friendship, dreams, and loneliness. The story resonates deeply with readers, offering both empathy and heartbreak through a controversial story. However, the book has often been banned due to its use of racial slurs, profanity, and its portrayal of mental disability. Of Mice and Men remains a powerful piece of literature that will leave readers in contemplation and awe.
Books are doors to other worlds, even the ones deemed provocative, repulsive, and immoral. These books, although challenging to face, still hold a lot of importance. Books are mirrors into ourselves, and just because we set the mirror down doesn’t mean the way we look changes. We should not let others’ fears obstruct our freedom and right to knowledge. We, as a society, must stop banning books and start pioneering the freedom to read any and all of them.
“The books that the world calls immoral are books that show the world its own shame.” – Oscar Wilde
