Fanfiction, the unsung hero of fandom provides a means for fans to experience their preferred characters and worlds in completely new methods. As an introduction, fanfiction is a genre of writing that allows fans to write stories about their favorite characters or universes from pre-existing works of another author. We're about to explore this in more detail in this article, diving into 8 different aspects of fanfiction.

The Emergence of Fanfiction

The modern fanfiction emerged with the boom of online communities in the late '90s. Websites like fanfiction.net and later Archive of Our Own (AO3) became hosts to millions of stories. Fanfiction.net, originating in 1998, is often referred to as the birthplace of fanfiction. The platform has a simple interface and allows users to leave reviews for stories they read.

Later, in 2008, a team of fans started Archive of Our Own (AO3). It's a fan-created platform designed to be more user-friendly with an ad-free layout. Users can bookmark stories, leave kudos, and participate in the comments section actively. AO3 has grown to become the go-to place for the fanfiction community over the years.

Importance of Canon and Divergence in Fanfiction

The term 'canon' refers to the original source material that inspire the fanfictions. Canon plays an essential role as it forms the basis for any given fanfic and provides a common ground for authors and readers alike. Fanfic authors usually stay true to the characters' personalities and stick to the original plot points.

But equally interesting is the idea of divergence from canon. Some authors consider this an excellent opportunity for creativity and original storytelling. They feel liberated to change an event, introduce new characters or explore alternate universes.

Role of Fanfiction in Virtual Community

Fanfiction hosts an intersection of creativity and community like no other. Authors form the twin pillars of this massive universe, with readers and reviewers adding to the ecosystem. It allows fandoms to discuss, engage and speculate about their beloved stories, thereby creating a sense of community and engagement.

Besides, fanfiction assists readers in relating and empathizing with characters in ways the original work might not allow. Fanfiction authors often delve deeper into the characters' psyche, emotions, and backstories than the source material, offering fans a more profound connection.

Ship and Slash: An Essential Aspect of Fanfiction

Shipping, derived from the word ‘relationship� is a ubiquitous concept in fanfiction. Enthusiasts pair up characters in romantic or platonic relationships, called 'ships'. Ships often result in notable sub-fictions known as slash (same-sex pairing) or Femslash (female same-sex pairing).

The phenomenon promotes love in all forms, regardless of the characters' gender, and sheds light on LGBT+ representation. Users can search for specific ships and read numerous stories about their favorite pairings on the fanfiction websites.

Developing Writing Skills

Fanfiction also serves as a platform for budding writers to hone their skills. It provides a safe space for writers to experiment with their writing style, plot development, and character exploration. The immediate feedback from readers serves as constructive criticism, enabling them to improve further.

Also, as fanfic authors already have a built-in audience, encouraging engagement is relatively easier. Hence, many amateur authors turn into confident writers, some even transitioning into published authors.

Legality and Ethics

Fanfiction resides in a gray area legally. Although technically infringing upon copyrights, it's usually tolerated under the fair use principle, especially if not for profit. Many authors and creators support fanfictions as they provide free publicity and keep their fandoms alive.

Ethically, it's essential for fanfic writers to give credit to the original creator and respect their works. And in response, companies, and original creators must respect fanfictions as artistic expressions of their fans' love and enthusiasm.

Popular Fanfiction Trends

Current trends in fanfiction often revolve around popular movies, TV series, books, and animes. Harry Potter, Naruto, Supernatural, and Marvel Cinematic Universe are a few well-known fandoms. However, the trends can quickly change with the launch of a new series or film.

Crossovers are also quite popular. These are stories where characters from disparate universes come together, sometimes leading to brilliant, unexpected dynamics.

Q&A

1. What is fanfiction? Fanfiction is a genre of writing that allows fans to write stories about their favorite characters or universes from pre-existing works of another author.

2. What is Canon? The term 'canon' refers to the original source material that inspire the fanfictions.

3. What does shipping mean in fanfiction? Shipping, derived from the word ‘relationship� is a ubiquitous concept in fanfiction where enthusiasts pair up characters in romantic or platonic relationships.

4. Can writing fanfiction improve writing skills? Yes, writing fanfiction can help improve writing skills. The immediate feedback from readers serves as constructive criticism and it provides a safe space for practice.

5. Is writing fanfiction legal? Fanfiction resides in a gray area legally. Although technically infringing upon copyrights, it's usually tolerated under the fair use principle, especially if not for profit.

References:

1. Thomas, B. (2014). What is fanfiction and why are people saying such nice things about it? Journal of Transformative Works and Cultures, 17.

2. Jenkins, H. (2006). Fans, bloggers, and gamers: Exploring participatory culture. NYU press.

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