Politically Correct Bedtime Stories

While researching Brothers Grimms’ fairytale stories, I came across an intriguing book: ‘Politically correct bedtime stories’ by James Finn Garner, which turns the entire concept of fairy tale storytelling on its head. Whimsical events and imagery is replaced with a degree of political exactness that results for some greatly entertaining reading. The extract of Little Red Riding Hood perfectly demonstrates this:

The wolf said, "You know, my dear, it isn't safe for a little girl to walk through these woods alone."

Red Riding Hood said, "I find your sexist remark offensive in the extreme, but I will ignore it because of your traditional status as an outcast from society, the stress of which has caused you to develop your own, entirely valid, worldview. Now, if you'll excuse me, I must be on my way."

Red Riding Hood walked on along the main path. But, because his status outside society had freed him from slavish adherence to linear, Western-style thought, the wolf knew a quicker route to Grandma's house. He burst into the house and ate Grandma, an entirely valid course of action for a carnivore such as himself. Then, unhampered by rigid, traditionalist notions of what was masculine or feminine, he put on Grandma's nightclothes and crawled into bed.

Little Red Riding Hood

Essentially, Garner translates Grimms’ fairytales into a satirical comedy, providing a new and unique setting. Much of which, I hope to similarly achieve with my own unique visual designs exploring a wide range of themes and concepts.

Garner, James. (1994). Politically Correct Bedtime Stories. London. Souvenir Press.