Fifty Shades of ??

In looking at the Book Review section of Sunday’s New York Times I noticed that the “50 Shades of Gray” trilogy was ranked one, two, and three on the combined bestseller list. 

I have not read any of the books.  However I have been told from various sources that they are not well written, are degrading to women (or at least one in particular) and can generally be classified as third-rate trash. 

So why do they hold such an exalted place on the bestseller list? What does this say about the emotional, psychological and/or sexual satisfaction [or lack thereof] of American women? What does this say about American men? Or does it say nothing except that many people are looking for some form of escapism from the circumstances of their own lives, in this case substituting trashy literature for other drugs. Or does it say nothing at all?

Explanation sought, if you dare to respond.