Is there a limit on what you can write and edit if you're Catholic?

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LouiseHine

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Hi and thanks for taking the time to read this.

I started writing my novel before I became Catholic, but finished it afterwards and self-published it. I made sure that the subtext in there was of a moral nature.
My question is: is there a limit to what Catholics can write about, and include in their work? Are there topics/ideas/scenes which we’re prohibited from writing?

Also, I’ve taken on someone’s book to edit, before realising what it contained. Is this allowed/prohibited?

Do I need to see a priest and confess either or both of these things?

Thanks,
Louise.
 
In general, you should not be promoting immoral acts or blasphemy.
 
If a character does something immoral, but the subtext suggest/consequences reveal that it’s wrong - is that acceptable do you think? Just curious…
 
Sure.
The a Bible is full of stories about sinners committing sins.
 
LouiseHine said:
Also, I’ve taken on someone’s book to edit, before realising what it contained. Is this allowed/prohibited?
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I’ve been an editor.

if you are uncomfortable with the topic of the book, politely tell the author you are unable to do the edit. “it’s not my cup of tea” is a sufficient answer if they inquire.

to my knowledge there is nothing prohibited beyond pornography. But all good authors should make an effort to show why their characters are behaving the way they are. It’s just good character development.
 
Yes, it is 100% truthful to depict fallen human beings–all types of sin. Catholics are interested in the truth and do not shy away from it. But you also have to show the overarching working of Divine Providence is drawing good from evil. Have you read the great Catholic novels and works of poetry? The Divine Comedy, The Power and the Glory, Brideshead Revisited, Kristin Lavransdattar, etc. etc etc. To be a writer you have to read what came before, and note how evil is described as well as how the ways of God are depicted.
 
I’d suggest you join the Catholic Writers Guild. You will find authors, editors from every genre and people who are serious about their faith.

The rule of thumb, I’d avoid porn and blatant blasphemy
 
I’ve read some - some of them came up between my two English degrees. Not read all of them though real life gets in the way of what I’d like to read. I have to read a lot of stuff for my job as an English teacher. I’ll add the ones you’ve recommended that I’ve not read to my list! Thanks!
 
I’ve never heard of that - thanks for the suggestion! I’m Googling now!
 
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