In the vast and varied landscape of literature, stories have the power to transport readers to different worlds, evoke intense emotions, and provoke thought.
However, it is within these narrative journeys that certain themes and content can unexpectedly confront readers with experiences that are personally challenging or distressing. While you may have heard of trigger warnings before—possibly even seen them in use—trigger warnings, while useful, can often be a contentious issue for some authors.
What Are Trigger Warnings?
Trigger warnings are brief statements that precede content, giving readers a heads-up about potentially distressing topics such as violence, abuse, discrimination, or mental health issues.
They are the coloured flags that tell you how rough the waves ahead may be. If you’re a great swimmer, you may not need to pay attention. But what about those who struggle?
While some may think that trigger warnings censor or limit creative expression, they do quite the opposite. They protect those who may be negatively impacted by the content, and foster a respectful, empathetic, and most importantly safe reading experience.
Why Include Trigger Warnings?
- Reader Safety and Comfort: At their core, trigger warnings are about care and consideration for the reader’s well-being. They allow readers to mentally prepare themselves or choose when and how to engage with challenging content, ensuring a safe reading experience.
- Fostering Inclusivity: Including trigger warnings is a step towards creating inclusive spaces in literature. It acknowledges the diverse experiences of readers, including those with trauma backgrounds, and respects their boundaries.
- Enhancing Reader Trust and Loyalty: Authors who are upfront about potential triggers in their work demonstrate transparency and sensitivity towards their audience’s needs. This can build trust and loyalty, as readers feel seen and respected.
- Empowering Reader Choice: Trigger warnings empower readers with the choice to engage with content on their terms. This empowerment can lead to a more positive reading experience, as readers are less likely to encounter unexpected distressing material.
Implementing Trigger Warnings Effectively
- Be Specific but Not Spoilery: Finding the balance between giving adequate warning and not spoiling key plot points is crucial. General warnings about the themes can be helpful without revealing specific events.
- Placement and Presentation: When advertising your work, consider placing trigger warnings in the book description, at the beginning of your book, or on your website. Make them clear and concise for easy visibility.
- Understanding and Research: Stay informed about common triggers, and consider seeking feedback from sensitivity readers or beta readers who can help identify potential trigger points in your work.
- Adapt and Update: Be open to feedback from your readership. If readers highlight additional triggers, consider updating your warnings to reflect this. The landscape of what might require a trigger warning evolves, and so should your approach.
Examples of Effective Trigger Warnings
“A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara: This book contains detailed descriptions of child abuse, sexual abuse, self-harm, suicide, and graphic violence. It delves into the complexities of trauma and its long-term effects. Reader discretion is advised for those who may find these themes distressing.
“The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins: This novel features intense scenes of violence and death, including children in combat situations. It explores themes of oppression, warfare, and survival in a dystopian setting. Some readers may find these depictions unsettling.
“Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman: This book touches on themes of emotional abuse, loneliness, and mental health struggles. While it is ultimately a story of resilience and healing, some passages recounting the protagonist’s past experiences may be difficult for readers sensitive to these issues.
In Summary
Incorporating trigger warnings is not about limiting the impact or reach of your storytelling but about enhancing the reader’s experience through empathy and understanding. It’s a nuanced dance between honesty about your work’s content and respect for the reader’s personal journey. As the literary world continues to evolve, the consideration of trigger warnings in author advertising reflects a commitment to compassionate storytelling, where the power of narratives is matched by the care for those who journey through them.
So, what do you think? What are your thoughts on trigger warnings? Would you use them in your own work? Do you appreciate when others use them?
Let us know in the comments below, or if you’re still not sure and want to sound it out with other authors, then why not jump over to our free Discord community?
You’ll get access to Founder and bestselling author Daniel Willcocks, as well as our diverse family of Activated Authors who each know what it takes to navigate the dizzy heights of creative success.
