It’s been a very long time since I read, Huckleberry Finn and I confess to not being negatively affected by his use of the “n-word.” A little bit of research shows he used the word over two hundred times which took me by surprise.

You regard Twain as America’s greatest ever writer which is your opinion and right. In the discussion, there are many who claim Twain’s positive intentions and completely justify his use of the word. I also confess to being a fan of Quentin Tarrantino films where his use of the same word may have exceeded Twain’s. I don’t know the count.

As a youth and young man, many in my community while reclaiming the word, used it freely in our own company. It’s said much less among my peers but younger people I’ve worked with have used it freely, often in mixed company.

I’m not in favor of banning any books, they will find their niche or not. That doesn’t mean they aren’t open to criticism. I have no opinion about Twain as a person, I read and enjoyed Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn and have seen both in film versions. I’m sure the film was edited for language.

I may reread, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn someday and if I have an opinion will share it. I still won’t advocate for it’s banning.