People don't like what they don't like, it's pretty simple really. You like a certain style on you, wear it and don't worry about what Joe or Jan thinks or says about it, since you are more likely than not, never going to see them again. If you see them on a regular bases, then once they repeat their dislike for the 2nd or 3rd time, ask them to come up with new material, and say you have heard they don't like your hair, next topic.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.