In "The Hotel New Hampshire" by John Irving, the character Franny expresses her disbelief at the contradictions in American culture. She notes that parents are willing to expose their children to violent acts, such as murder, yet they go to great lengths to shield them from discussing natural human experiences like sexuality and orgasms. This observation highlights a broader societal hypocrisy regarding what is deemed appropriate for children to witness or learn about.
Franny's reflection serves as a commentary on the conflicting values in American society, where brutal realities are sometimes normalized while healthy conversations about intimacy are considered taboo. This paradox reveals a complex view of morality and protection in parenting, illustrating how deeply ingrained cultural norms can shape perceptions of right and wrong.