The Impact of BookTok on Welsh Culture

As the phenomenon of BookTok continues to captivate readers around the world by popularizing fantasy novels, experts are expressing serious concerns about the potential ramifications on Welsh culture.

The viral sensation of 2024, "A Court of Thorn and Roses" (ACOTAR) by American author Sarah J. Maas, showcases how easily fantasy can be intertwined with real-world cultures. However, the character names in this and similar books—like Rhysand and Gwyneth—draw heavily from Welsh roots, raising questions about cultural appropriation and authenticity in literature.

This is reminiscent of what has been termed "the Tolkien effect," named after J.R.R. Tolkien, whose works like "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" drew significantly from Welsh language and mythology. While Tolkien's homage to Welsh culture had positive outcomes, creating a deeper interest in the mystique of Welsh folklore, the modern wave of fantasy literature is prompting a critical discussion regarding the portrayal of Wales itself.

Voices from the Community

Bethan Hindmarch, a bookseller and fantasy blogger from Kidwelly, poses a stark warning: "It's essential to recognize that our culture isn't mere fantasy. When artists borrow elements from Welsh traditions, they must do so with respect and understanding." Many readers appreciate the allure of fantasy—escaping reality—but there is an alarming trend of misrepresenting Wales as solely a mystical, rural wonderland, a portrayal that undermines its true cultural richness.

Prof. Dimitra Fimi, an esteemed lecturer at the University of Glasgow who has spent over 20 years immersed in Welsh culture, highlights the magnitude of this issue. "Fantasy literature has a long-standing tradition of engaging with myths and legends, and Wales possesses a treasure trove of such stories," she explains. However, she cautions against the oversimplified perception that has emerged, where the complexities of modern Welsh life are overshadowed by romanticized fantasies.

Exploring Cultural Confusion

Books like "ACOTAR," while successful in engaging new audiences, also invite snobbery and condescension towards traditional fantasy. Hindmarch argues that every genre should celebrate its readers and that the surge of interest in fantasy from BookTok shouldn't belittle its diverse sub-genres.

Elucidating the potential for cultural confusion, Prof. Fimi explains how blending different Celtic identities—Welsh, Gaelic, Irish—can lead to a generalized misunderstanding of each unique culture. Authors must approach Welsh heritage with diligence and respect. Mispronounced names, like those highlighted in the Fourth Wing saga, illustrate how lack of research can lead to cultural insensitivity, damaging reader perceptions of authenticity.

Promoting Authentic Narratives

"The interest in Welsh folklore is burgeoning, with works like 'Morgan is My Name' and 'Welsh Fairy Tales, Myths and Legends' proving profitable and popular," says Hindmarch. "These are examples of how authors can respect and honor Welsh culture while creating captivating narratives."

A notable counterpoint is found in Diana Wynne Jones's "Howl's Moving Castle," which successfully critiques common misconceptions about Wales while still weaving magic and adventure into its narrative fabric.

The Need for Sensitivity in Publishing

The need for increased awareness and sensitivity in publishing is imperative, argues Prof. Fimi. The misuse of Welsh language and culture on a global scale could lead to an enduring misunderstanding of Wales itself, with many confusing it with England.

As the desire for authentic connections to cultures grows, it's crucial that authors and publishers be diligent in their approaches. The idyllic portrayal of Welsh landscapes and legends can be enchanting, but there’s a fine line between admiration and misrepresentation. The challenge, therefore, lies in celebrating and preserving the true essence of Welsh heritage amid the fantastical allure of the genre.

Conclusion

In a world increasingly dominated by social media influences, the narrative of authenticity must take precedence—because respect for culture should always come before the allure of fantasy.