Once upon a time, fantasy literature was revered for its intricate world-building, complex characters and profound themes. Now, thanks to BookTok, it is increasingly seen as a source of cheap thrills and female fantasies.What was once a genre celebrated for its imaginative storytelling, including renowned novels such as Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings, is being reduced to “spice levels” and thirst traps, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
The rise of BookTok, the corner of TikTok dedicated to all things books, has undoubtedly brought attention to the literary world. However, its obsession with romance and explicit content is overshadowing the true essence of fantasy. Instead of discussing the rich lore of Middle-earth or the political intrigue of Westeros, Booktokers are busy rating the “hotness” of fictional characters and recommending books based solely on their steamy scenes. “I used to think fantasy was all about dragons and magic,” says Hannah Biggins ’29, a Cornell student who admits she has never read a fantasy novel, “but now it seems like it’s just fairy porn.” This sentiment is echoed by many non-readers who are hesitant to explore the genre due to its portrayal on BookTok. They see the constant focus on romance and sexual content and assume that is all fantasy has to offer.
This skewed perception is fueled by a disturbing trend: the rise of AI Reviewers. These individuals, often people who do not even read the books they review, use AI to generate summaries and focus solely on the romantic elements. They rave about the “alpha male” characters and create content designed to appeal to women’s fantasies, completely ignoring the intricate plots and world-building that makes fantasy literature so special. “It’s frustrating to see people reduce these complex stories to nothing more than male wish fulfillment,” says Ellie Bleharski ’29, who is an avid reader of the fantasy genre. Bleharski goes on to state, “Fantasy has always been a genre that explores important themes like good versus evil, power, and identity. But those themes are getting lost in the noise.” Cornell, with its rich history of literary scholarship, should be at the forefront of pushing back against this trend. The university offers courses that delve into the depths of fantasy literature, but they are often overshadowed by the BookTok hype. Perhaps it is time for Cornell to take a more active role in promoting the intellectual value of fantasy, showcasing its potential for critical analysis and philosophical exploration.
For generations, fantasy has also been dismissed as mere escapism, a frivolous distraction from the real world. However, emerging research suggests that delving into fantastical realms can actually be a powerful tool for cognitive and emotional growth. By suspending disbelief and embracing the impossible, readers unlock dormant areas of their minds, fostering creativity and flexible thinking. Beyond cognitive benefits, fantasy often grapples with complex moral issues, forcing readers to confront uncomfortable truths and examine their own values. In an increasingly complex and uncertain world, the ability to think critically and empathize with others is more crucial than ever. It is time to reconsider fantasy not as a childish indulgence, but as a vital tool for cultivating a more imaginative, compassionate and resilient mind.
While mature themes have their place, the recent surge in “smut fantasy” risks overshadowing the genre’s deeper potential. Critics argue that prioritizing graphic content over substance cheapens the narrative and alienates readers seeking genuine storytelling. This phenomenon is already dividing comment sections on TikTok as readers decry the constant presence of sex scenes in the most popular books of the month. Fortunately, the existence of these commenters offers a glimmer of hope that the genre’s artistic integrity will be preserved.
Ithaca, with its vibrant community of writers and readers, also has a role to play. Local bookstores and libraries can host events that celebrate the diversity of fantasy literature, highlighting authors who prioritize storytelling over explicit content. Book clubs can focus on analyzing the themes and symbolism of fantasy novels, rather than just discussing the latest “book boyfriend.” It is time to reclaim fantasy literature from the clutches of BookTok’s obsession with smut. We need to remind people that fantasy is more than just a source of titillation; it is a genre that can challenge our assumptions, expand our imaginations, and offer profound insights into the human condition. Let’s bring the lore back to the forefront and leave the lust behind.
Skylar Toddings '29 is an Opinion Columnist and an English and Art History student in the College of Arts and Sciences. Her fortnightly column, Views from Sky, offers a sophisticated exploration of popular social culture, blending a fiction reader's imagination with the rigor of journalistic insight to deliver engaging and thought-provoking hot takes for Cornellians to dissect. She can be reached at stoddings@cornellsun.com.
