need quick feedback question

[BurgundyElephant]

I'm working on a new, non-fiction book. In it I relate the anecdote joke about a person who gets to choose between Heaven and Hell, chooses Hell but is tricked. Anyway, in my everyday use, I say "Hell". Is there a better word? Should I substitude "Hades"? I don't want to offend people. Thanks!

[Dark_Mom]

In my personal opinion, 'Hell' is just fine. It is the name of a place, and not a derogatory comment. I wouldn't worry about it.

[twilight girl]

Hell sounds fine to me. Using euphemistic references detracts from your anecdote IMO.

[BurgundyElephant]

Thank you for the replies. I agree that a substitution would detract from the anectote - it's not a Greek Myth I'm relating here!

I'm just a bit paranoid about offending my audience.


Wow- Dark_Mom - I pulled you out of lurkdom!

[twilight girl]

Originally Posted by BurgundyElephant

Thank you for the replies. I agree that a substitution would detract from the anectote - it's not a Greek Myth I'm relating here!

Exactly what I was thinking when I wrote my post!

Originally Posted by BurgundyElephant

I'm just a bit paranoid about offending my audience.

Well, if you have offended or alienated someone, what's the point

[Dark_Mom]

Here is the thing, every writer, has in one way or another offended a reader. It is a fact of life that not everyone will enjoy what you write. Be bold, and be proud of what you write. Never second guess yourself, or write to please other people, because when you do that. Writing no longer becomes fun.