An unlikely hero

In mad times, unlikely heroes emerge.

In a joint statement, Fisher, Davies and Jónsdóttir said that following Rowling’s recent intervention on transgender rights, they had asked the agency “to reaffirm their commitment to transgender rights and equality”. However, following private talks, they said: “We felt that they were unable to commit to any action that we thought was appropriate and meaningful.”

As a result, the writers felt unable to continue to be represented by the agency, adding: “Freedom of speech can only be upheld if the structural inequalities that hinder equal opportunities for underrepresented groups are challenged and changed.”

In its response, the Blair Partnership said it took pride in the diversity of views represented by their authors but it could not compromise on the “fundamental freedom” of allowing authors the right to express their thoughts and beliefs.

A spokeswoman said it would always champion diverse voices and believe in freedom of speech for all but it was not willing to have staff “re-educated” to meet the demands of a small group of clients.

So the four writers, one of whom remained anonymous, don't see the contradiction between compelling speech in support of a cause and freedom of speech? This pretzel logic is what comes of worldly ideologies that assert themselves as absolutes. They ultimately trump others' rights, including the right to speak against it, which is what Rowling did, effectively.

I must register my astonishment that a literary agency would characterize the writers' demands as Communist re-education. That kind of rhetoric is typically reserved for use by Right-wingers against mandated political correctness.

At any rate, good on Rowling and the Blair Partnership for standing up for what they believe in and protecting their employees. Some may bemoan the spat going public, the parting of ways, and the ripping up of contracts, but it's the optimal outcome in a liberal society, which is what this is supposed to be. This way, no one's conscience is violated and everyone walks away of his own free will.

Rowling may have "F-U" money a hundred times over, but we shouldn't discount a celebrity's attachment to adoration. That adoration, more or less constant for over 20 years, has turned to bullying since she spoke out. She's responded with bravery and class.

As always, let me know what you think in the comments. If you like hard sci-fi, check out my books Seeds of Calamity and Tendrils to the Moon. You can find extended previews for each here and here.