The Marquis de Sade's Guide to Cancel Culture.

The article examines the contemporary phenomenon of "cancellation," a form of public shaming and career ostracism amplified by social media, comparing it to the theological concept of perdition, or total spiritual annihilation. It highlights the recent case of graphic novelist Neil Gaiman, who faces professional setbacks amid unproven allegations, illustrating how cancellation can lead to commercial and cultural exclusion without legal conviction. The piece then contrasts this with the enduring legacy of the Marquis de Sade, a historically notorious figure whose life and works, despite severe condemnation and attempts at erasure, continue to influence culture and provoke debate centuries after his death. The article suggests that while cancellation may temporarily sideline individuals, it does not guarantee permanent oblivion, as cultural memory and reinterpretation often allow for eventual resurgence.