Taipei, Feb. 8 (CNA) Even though Taiwan is widely viewed as the most socially open-minded about lesbian literature in Asia, publishing it is still an uphill battle in Taiwan, independent publishers said Wednesday on the sidelines of the Taipei International Book Exhibition (TIBE).
"I am determined to spend my last penny on publishing lesbian literature, to make Taiwanese people understand it more and respect lesbian culture," said the principle of Must Muster Publisher, known as "Hsiao-yu." "And we are talking about Taiwan -- widely regarded as the leading East Asian country in lesbian literature."
"It's not easy to be an independent publisher in Taiwan focusing on lesbian literature, which is still struggling to gain the recognition and popularity it deserves," said Chang Mo-lan, the principle of Northern Light Publishing Company.
The nature of lesbian literature makes it hard to be profitable for publishers, Hsiao-yu said. "Lebians and gays buy books written by heterosexual writers. But most heterosexuals don't read lesbian and gay literature."
The best-selling title of Must Muster Publisher sold about 6,000 copies, while Northern Light's bestseller sold less than 4,000 copies. The numbers pale in comparison with titles on the best-seller list, which is compiled by chain bookstores.
The government should do more to help the cause of literature and sexual equality, Hsiao-yu said. "Most of our titles are 'R' rated and have to be sealed ... But how do you expect teenagers who are trying to find out about their true sexual orientation to understand themselves with this measure?"
According to the Measure Governing the Rating Systems of Publications and Pre-recorded Video Programs, restricted publications must be sealed and carry a label on the cover reading "R rated: Not available for those 18 or under."
Most people have the misperceptions about homesexuality, which is why Hsiao-yu and Chang Mo-lan, who both came out as lesbians, try to promote lesbian literature.
"People think about sex and violence when they think about homsexuality. And that really is the wrong perception," Hsiao-yu noted.
"Hopefully, the success of 'Brokeback Mountain' will help people understand more about same-sex relationships and pay more attention to homosexual literature," Chang Mo-lan said, citing Taiwanese director Ang Lee's award-winning film based on the true story of two gay cowboys.
"This is a free world, where I think everyone -- including homosexuals -- have the right to voice an opinion, and where all kinds of human relationships should be respected, " Hsiao-yu concluded.