Use of offensive language in books for teenagers has been associated with the potential of corrupting their minds. There have been protests against Marjane Satrapi’s Persepolis: The story of a return because of claims of offensive language and its unsuitability for teenagers. Cuss words are believed to be offensive and should not be used in young adults’ books. However, I believe Satrapi utilizes cuss words to create credibility in the issues that her book articulates. Satrapi’s book tackles contemporary issues that are best articulated using swear words. Satrapi addresses issues of poor treatment of women in different cultures during her interaction with a Kuwaiti immigrant where she throws a can of coca to the man and shouts “Fuck you! Son of a bitch” (169). The moment of anger justifies the use of profane language by the author.
The use of offensive language by Satrapi depicts an honest picture of modern life and context. I believe Satrapi employs swear words in her book to bring about an irrefutable presence of the current society in the classroom. In the description of her married life, the author in thought refers to her husband as “an ass” (168), which is an indication of the everyday life of a failed marriage. The author further refers to her boyfriend’s lover as “that bitch” (86) out of disappointment of her failed relationship. I believe the book is appropriate for young adults because, at this age, they are already aware of cuss words and violence. Most of them are not very keen on the curse words either.
The book is essential because it helps us readers see and understand the world from the author’s point of view. The author writes on her actual experiences, which makes it believable and eye-opening. According to Lukens’ et al. criteria of judging literature, the book is best because it provides vicarious experiences. The students can derive knowledge and experience the effects of war as well as oppression from the author’s point of view.
Works Cited
Lukens, Rebecca J et al. A Critical Handbook of Children's Literature. 9th ed., Pearson, 2013.
Satrapi, Marjane. Persepolis 2: A Story of a Return. Pantheon, 2005.
