LiberalDem

Hello all,

I just have a quick question. I know the FAQ states that curse words are forbidden, but I was wondering if it would be adequate enough to place a disclaimer at the beginning of the story as a warning for language? The words are not gratuitous and are not placed there for shock value, but are rather the proper buttons for the emotions of the characters (Or so I feel). Would this be acceptable?

Thanks!

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Ilan Bouchard

I think that'd be acceptable, but better check with a Mod or Admin first. If I were you, I'd put something similar to this in the suggestion box. I figure as long as people know what they're about to read, it should be ok. Anyways, I've seen it done plenty of times.

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Queasy Dillo

I see nothing wrong with occasional use of swearing. However, it does have its limits, and there comes a point when it crosses the line between showing character and becoming a distraction. Once it reaches this point it also makes some reader's question the writer's ability to coherently put their thoughts together.

So drifting back to the question here....

The stuff I post usually has some mild profanity. although I generally don't put warnings in the title. I don't think you really need to warn potential readers unless your piece is loaded with it.

Or that's my experience. Nobody's made a point about using light swearing in mine (yet), so you're probably safe slipping in a few here and there without needing a warning. However, if you were going to add one anyway, you could also put a warning at the top of the work rather than attaching it to the topic line.

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Spudley

Actually, the rules don't completely outlaw swearing; they just discourage it.
Here's what the rules say:

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Nazareth

Damnit I thought swearing was outlawed

lisajane

I usually have mild swearing but not enough as to warrant a warning.

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LiberalDem

Thanks for the info everyone!

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"I am a work in progress dressed in the fabric of a world unfolding offering me intricate patterns of questions rhythms that never come clean and strengths that you still haven't seen." Ani DiFranco (The Slant)