The Surprising Value of Fanfiction

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So this is something most of you probably don't know about me: in my downtime, I like to read fanfiction.

For those of you not familiar with the term, fanfiction is basically what its name describes: fiction written by fans based off of characters in a movie/book/TV show.

Now before you point fingers and laugh at me (or grab the pitchforks and torches, etc.), let me tell you something. I know that fanfiction has the stereotype of being badly written porn that fans use to fulfill their sexual fantasies with their favorite characters, and this is true for a lot, if not most fanfiction. However, not all fanfiction is bad. I've found some fantastic stories written by fans that explore different characters, or a creation of an alternate universe. There are some really good writers out there.

So here are several reasons why I like fanfiction.


First, fanfiction is great for fans because it allows them to see possible different endings or even sides to their characters. It gives the fans that creative freedom to maybe change the thing about their show/book they don't like. It also allows fans to connect together through creative writing and sharing stories. Fanfiction helps us look at a character in a different way, and even though it's non-canon, it's still fun to think of the different possibilities. It provides a creative outlet for the fans to explore the world and characters they love so much.

Another great thing about fanfiction is that it's also really good for aspiring writers. Fanfiction is the perfect training ground for writers to practice their own writing style and abilities. Let me explain more.

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To start, writing fanfiction means that the author already has a setting and characters to work with. I know that for me, coming up with compelling characters or an interesting setting can be incredibly difficult and can provide a lot of my writer's block.

Working with preconceived characters is a great way to practice character development. Specifically, you can practice certain elements of character development. For example, you could put your favorite character in a situation and explore how he or she would react. You wouldn't have to worry about creating the character in the first place, it's already there and fleshed out, giving you something already tangible to work with.

 Fanfiction also provides good practice in story telling. Using characters and fanfiction, you can focus solely on telling a story. It's great practice for focusing on just one element of story telling. In a way, writing fanfiction can be like storytelling with training wheels. You have something solid to rely on (strong characters and setting), but you can get the creative juices flowing.

Actually, most of the the stories I first made up in my head were basically fanfiction. I would get into a TV show or movie and then I would either add different characters or create new situations to explore the show's universe. It provided a great way for me to develop my skills with stories and writing.

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Finally, reading and writing fanfiction can be a nice way to relax for writers. You don't have to worry too much about things and it's a good way to just unwind, especially if a different story you're working on is stressing you out.

I know that when my other novels that I'm working on are giving me some serious problems, I take a break and make up fanfiction stories in my head. It's my way of mentally relaxing and I have to say it works pretty well. When I come back to my novels, I have a clearer mind, and sometimes the piece of fanfiction I was working on gives me an idea for my story.

So yes, I do like fanfiction, although I do have to be careful when reading it since some writers do go a little crazy with their romantic pairings. But like I said earlier, it's a good way to relax and it gives my mind something to work on that won't cause me a ton of stress. And there really are some great fanfiction writers out there whose stories I've enjoyed immensely. It's made me decide to start writing down some of my fanfiction ideas as well.

So don't knock fanfiction until you try it! It might surprise you.

Until later, folks!