Chick Lit is Where the Fun Is

Over the last several months, I've read countless blog posts, articles, and chat room discussion loops about chick lit versus literary fiction—the most recent appearing in this month's Writer's Digest. I haven't contributed to any of the conversations because I think every compelling argument and observation has already been made. Given what I write, I think it's obvious which side of the debate I'm on.

My family is quick to point out that just because it's all been said before isn't usually a good enough argument for me keeping my mouth shut. They think I have a lot of opinions. Some of them are even based in fact and reason. So, here goes. I'm weighing in on the chick lit debate, putting my own stake in the ground.

As I talk to people about my writing, I've noticed I tend to mumble the phrase "I write chick lit." And that makes me mad. I'm proud of what I write, and enjoy this genre immensely. So why do I feel a need to defend myself when I talk about it? I suppose for the same reason I tell strangers the last book I read was Middlesex. I've read at least 15 chick lit books since I finished Middlesex. But I want these strangers to think I'm smart and intellectual, a seriousl woman, not a silly girl. (I said I'm opinionated, I never claimed my opionons are consistent. I've also never claimed to be brave.)

I think this need to impress, at least in this country, comes from our Puritan work ethic that dictates we never really enjoy anything. Look around at the messages we receive everyday. They all subtly tell us life is hard work. We must work hard, play hard, and expand our minds at every opportunity. Entertainment for entertainment's sake isn't hard, and therefore not allowed. Nobody wants to stand up and say, "I'm a grown up and I don't want to work hard. I just want to enjoy myself."

Well, I'm saying it now.

Chick lit represents fun to me. To me, that's the difference between it and literary women's fiction. That doesn't mean the story is insubstantial and nothing deep or life altering happens to the characters. It just means the writer has a sense of humor and the book makes me laugh. I think in this world where we are constantly threatened with terrorist attacks, war, and a host of serious social problems, we need a good laugh. Chick lit makes me laugh, so I will proudly keep reading it, and writing it.