Value Judgements

 

Our son queued for three hours  at the Hay Festival to have his book signed by the author himself. Neil Gaimon was patience personified, (as was our son who was last in the queue). Every person in the line had the author’s undivided attention for three to five minutes as he signed and talked to them individually. I also like his books, in particular American Gods. 

You can imagine my unease on reading recent allegations concerning Neil Gaimon’s sexual shenanigans with women much younger than himself. The nurse, a New Zealander call Scarlett, he accuses of false memories. The other, ‘K’was an eighteen year old fan he met at a book signing. The relationship began when she was twenty. He argues it was consensual. She argues otherwise, accusing him of forceful behaviour, and on one occasion of rape.

At this particular point, value judgements, tribal loyalties and financial calculation come into play—all of them centred around the age-old question, can you—should you—separate the man/woman from their art?

If we look at two extremes, Caravaggio and Gary Glitter, most will agree ‘The Head of John the Baptist’ is superior to ‘My Gang?’ Does Caravaggio then warrant a ‘Get Out of Jail Free’ card for repeated violence, murder and attempted castration? Pope Paul V didn’t think so, sentencing Caravaggio to death.

After some years on the run, it was Caravaggio’s art and wealthy benefactors that redeemed him, and his paintings now sell for millions. History has spoken, money talks.

With the likes of Woody Allen and Roman Polanski the jury is still out, but the issues are essentially the same: money, peer group, and value judgements. One suspects a similar calculation was made regarding Harvey Weinstein; one hopes that Gaimon will prove more fortunate—or again, is that a value judgement on my part? 

I suspect Neil Gaimon will weather the storm, his fanbase and monetary value to the publishing and television/film industry should see him through; though another question does come to mind. What will the actor David Tennant do? 

Recently he said this about a politician he disagrees with. “Until we wake up and Kemi Badenoch doesn’t exist anymore whilst we live in this world, I am honoured to accept this award. I don’t wish ill of her. I just wish her to shut up.” A large number of people will agree with those sentiments—Kemi Badenoch should be cancelled—ie value judgements against one they dislike. If Neil Gaimon is found guilty of rape, I for one will be disappointed, but what about David Tennant? Will he again take the moral high ground, this time withdrawing from the money-spinners like ‘Good Omens’ or does a different set of values come into play?