Emojis and Eggplants

In my new book, which is going to be available as an e-book and as a paperback, I have a challenge. There are a lot of text messages in the book, and a key plotpoint is the use of the rather rude emoji 🍆.

My dilemma is if I try to include the emoji itself, it will appear black and white, and may not be recognisable, and may not even work properly in different formats. If I describe the use of the emoji, do I use the term ‘eggplant’, which is the most popular term, but which is an Americanism, or do I describe it as a Brit would, ‘aubergine’, which might confuse some potential audiences and lessen the impact of it being used at all.

If you have any thoughts leave me a message on the site, I’d really value input!

Stay safe,

Kit