Chinese police have intensified their crackdown on gay erotic literature, detaining dozens of writers, primarily young women, who create Boys' Love novels. This genre, popular since the 1990s, faces scrutiny as the state media labels it as 'vulgar' and obscenity laws tighten.
Crackdown on Gay Erotic Literature Intensifies in China
Crackdown on Gay Erotic Literature Intensifies in China
Authorities detain numerous writers amid a sweeping enforcement against Boys' Love novels, a genre popular among female readers.
In a significant escalation of censorship, Chinese authorities have detained dozens of writers engaged in the creation of gay erotic literature, specifically in the Boys' Love genre. This wave of enforcement has surfaced over the past year, as police conduct widespread investigations and interrogations targeting largely female authors. A graduate student from southern China, who penned a romance novel featuring male characters in erotic scenarios, is among those at risk of criminal prosecution.
The genre, known for its narratives revolving around male same-sex relationships and predominantly appealing to heterosexual female audiences, has flourished since the 1990s. However, as the popularity of Boys' Love fiction surged, state media began portraying the genre negatively, claiming it threatens to distort young people's perceptions of sexuality.
At least twelve authors from Anhui Province faced trial on obscenity allegations last year, resulting in heavy fines and prison sentences. Further cases have been reported in Gansu Province this spring, indicating an expanding crackdown. The government's increasing intolerance was highlighted by the harsh sentencing of a well-known author in 2018, who received a ten-year prison term for similar charges.
As the clampdown continues, the future of Boys' Love fiction and its creators appears increasingly precarious, with the intersection of artistic expression and stringent regulations leaving many writers fearful for their freedom and careers.
The genre, known for its narratives revolving around male same-sex relationships and predominantly appealing to heterosexual female audiences, has flourished since the 1990s. However, as the popularity of Boys' Love fiction surged, state media began portraying the genre negatively, claiming it threatens to distort young people's perceptions of sexuality.
At least twelve authors from Anhui Province faced trial on obscenity allegations last year, resulting in heavy fines and prison sentences. Further cases have been reported in Gansu Province this spring, indicating an expanding crackdown. The government's increasing intolerance was highlighted by the harsh sentencing of a well-known author in 2018, who received a ten-year prison term for similar charges.
As the clampdown continues, the future of Boys' Love fiction and its creators appears increasingly precarious, with the intersection of artistic expression and stringent regulations leaving many writers fearful for their freedom and careers.
