In Flannery O'Connor's statement, she highlights a perceived bias among Northern readers towards Southern literature, suggesting that their interpretations are heavily influenced by cultural differences. By stating that anything from the South will be labeled grotesque unless it truly is, O'Connor implies that Northern readers may struggle to understand the nuances of Southern life and characters. This could stem from differing societal values, experiences, and perceptions of normalcy.
Her reference to "freaks" points to the unique and often marginalized characters that inhabit Southern narratives. O'Connor suggests that Southern writers are more attuned to recognizing and portraying these "freaks" because they reflect the complexity and multifaceted nature of Southern society, which often grapples with themes of identity, morality, and human flaws. In contrast, Northern readers may find these representations shocking or outlandish, leading them to classify them as grotesque rather than realistic.
Ultimately, O'Connor's commentary reveals her understanding of regional differences in literature and her belief that Southern writers, through their focus on the unusual and the flawed, offer profound insights into the human condition, grounded in the unique cultural landscape of the South.