Curvy. Full figure. Plump. Plus size. Fat. There are many
words used to describe characters, heroines in particular, who are not a size
2. What word you use or like is up to you, and changes from reader to reader. As
an example, some hate the term fat, which has so many negative connotations
thanks to society, while others have proudly claimed the word for themselves.
And much like the words used, the sizes vary, too. Which is
great! But remember, you don’t want to give your heroine (or hero) specific
sizes and numbers. That is, do NOT say: She was a size 14 OR She weighed 180
pounds. Those are unnecessary and can easily lead to comparisons, intentional
or unconscious. “Wait, she’s calling herself fat at 180 pounds? I’d KILL to be
that small though!”
For one thing, sizes and weight don’t take into account
height and weight, nor an individual’s unique body structure. But beyond all of
that, it’s just not necessary to give numbers. Numbers, after all, are a
societal concept. Who else tells us that a size 2 is “good” while a size 20 is
“bad”? It’s sure as hell not the measuring tapes and size charts!
But that’s getting a bit off subject, isn’t it? Sorry. My
point was simply: don’t give us your character’s weight and clothing sizes. You
can, however, use your words to describe the body to us. Is it jiggly? Is it
round? Is it pear shaped? Apple shaped? Big belly? Wide hips? Both? Neither?
That’s all fine to describe, but telling us specific pounds and size is
meaningless – while at the same time packing far too much meaning, thanks to
society’s messages and views. It’s best to just avoid them (numbers) all
together.
The other day, I was reading a book that had been
recommended by many for its great fat representation and body positivity (as
well as being hot and kinky and just a good book in general). And it was all
those things, by the way! But reading it got me to thinking: what other
romances are there with fat/plus size heroines? Specifically, body/fat positive
portrayals, which are even more rare in romance.
So of course I asked Twitter, and romancelandia came through
with some great recs and a lot of great discussions in general!
