«The Devil’s Pen»: Hatred and Conflict of Rights on X Surrounding the Publication of «El odio»

Abstract

This paper presents a discourse analysis of the most popular messages published on the social network X regarding the book El odio, based on the interviews conducted by the writer Luisgé Martín with the parricide José Bretón. The analysis draws on qualitative data from approximately 600 tweets published during the week of 20 to 26 March 2025, examining in depth the most relevant topics and messages: the conflict between freedom of expression and artistic creation versus the right to honour and to non-revictimisation, especially in contexts of vicarious violence. The results reveal a high degree of discursive polarisation, centred on the decision of whether or not to publish the book and amplified by individual social actors, media outlets, legal professionals, and activists. The study shows how X functions as a space for public deliberation, in which effective mechanisms of social pressure—such as the boycott of the publishing house—are articulated and differences are amplified, blurring the boundaries between ethics and rights.