I’m trying to make a list of books that are controversial or infamous for whatever reason, but still have some semblance of literary merit OR has been heavily influential in some way. (But I’m willing to hear anybody out so don’t take those “rules” too seriously lol)
For example, Lolita. I would include Lolita because although it’s themes are very sick, the author did not write it with the intention of it being seen as some kind of pornographic or sadistic material. Basically, I’m trying not to include anything that constitutes as “torture porn” or anything that’s shocking just for the sake of being shocking.
Other examples would be things like Mein Kampf and The Communist Manifesto, which have undeniably had a big influence on people in one way or another.
The list so far: Lolita, Mein Kampf, The Anarchist’s Cookbook, The Jungle, The Communist Manifesto, The Prince, 1984
by bebemochichhi