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The reason this debate keeps happening is because BL, like any genre, has a complicated relationship with dark themes. Some readers see grape in stories and immediately think it’s romanticizing abuse, especially when it’s used as a cheap way to force ‘romance’ between characters. Others argue it’s just fiction, and exploring messed-up scenarios doesn’t equal endorsing them. Both sides have valid points, but instead of discussing it constructively, people end up attacking each other.
What’s weird is the hostility toward people who don’t like the trope. Disliking grape plots doesn’t make someone ‘too sensitive’ or ‘a moralizing hypocrite’ it just means they want better storytelling or don’t enjoy that kind of content. At the same time, readers who ddo engage with dark fiction shouldn’t be accused of ‘supporting rape.’ Fiction is complex, and everyone consumes it differently.
The real issue isn’t the trope itself, it’s how it’s written. If it’s handled with depth (like exploring trauma or consequences), fine. But if it’s just shock value or lazy drama, of course people will criticize it. Instead of fighting over who’s ‘right,’ maybe we should push for more nuanced discussions—and better writing