If they had said my writing wasn't good enough, fair enough, that's an opinion. But to say it's too complex is to insult the intelligence of the so-called young.

Tanith Lee’s quote addresses a criticism she faced regarding the complexity of her writing. She argues that if people had simply said her work wasn’t good enough, she could accept it as a matter of personal opinion. However, she takes issue with the critique that her writing is “too complex,” suggesting that such an opinion insults the intelligence of young readers. Lee is asserting that young people are more than capable of understanding intricate ideas and layered narratives, and to dismiss their ability to engage with complex material is a form of patronizing them.

The phrase "insult the intelligence of the so-called young" reveals Lee’s frustration with the assumption that younger generations are intellectually incapable of appreciating sophisticated or nuanced literature. By challenging this perspective, Lee defends both the intellectual capabilities of youth and the value of complex storytelling. She rejects the idea that complexity in writing should be seen as a barrier, advocating for the idea that young readers can handle and even thrive in engaging with more advanced themes and ideas.

As a fantasy and science fiction writer, Lee often worked in genres known for exploring deeper and more intricate concepts. Her writing style, which could be dense and layered, reflects her belief in the capacity of readers—regardless of age—to process and appreciate such complexity. Lee’s stance in this quote was likely influenced by her commitment to providing thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating literature.

Ultimately, Lee’s quote is a defense of both creative freedom and the intellectual potential of young readers. She challenges the limiting notion that simplicity is necessary for accessibility, asserting that complexity should not be equated with inaccessibility, especially for a generation capable of grasping deeper meaning and more nuanced narratives.