In ‘Features’, I talk a little bit with my fellow writer friends about the hot topics in the writing world, and in our lives as well. Welcome, and feel free to take a seat at our train of thought.
So, I’ve read “Intermezzo” by Sally Rooney.
If you read my previous “Recommendations” piece, you already know that, and long story short, I loved it. But it seems like the more Rooney tries to be human and approach different kinds of human connections (that don’t necessarily end in ‘happily ever after’), the more she’s the target of constant criticism for doing exactly that.
The main criticism that I’ve seen towards her fourth novel is the “lack of relatability”. And that made me wonder… what does relatability mean to people when we’re talking about written content? Aside from being inclusive towards different body types, genders, sexualities, skin colors and races, which I find absolutely necessary.
What do people mean when they want the author to be ‘more relatable’?
‘Relatability’ is one of the biggest factors taken in consideration by people before even consuming something nowadays. The most viral movies, songs and TV shows are all pieces of media that you can literally call your friend and be like “that’s so us!”.
It seems like you need to have an ‘universal appeal’ to ever be successful if you’re a content creator. Everyone is so lost and confused over their own identities that they need to relate to something.
And that might be completely valid to you, but my main point is:
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