“If You Don’t Like It, Here’s a Little Tip… Don’t Read It”

I’ve heard a surprising number of people denigrate fan fiction—saying something to the effect of, “It’s a waste of paper and/or web space, written by those lacking either the talent to create their own material, or the courage to market it.”

I’m sure you’re stunned that I agree with neither of these positions.

The idea that one must publish to be a “real” writer is patently absurd—elitist crap propounded by those with a desperate need to feel superior, or at the very least denigrate that which they do not understand or appreciate. The two primary reasons favoring fan fiction far outweigh those opposing… and more, either one of the former is stronger justification than the latter as a whole.

Of course, there’s simple enjoyment. Many people like writing fan fiction, and that’s all the reason they need. One does not say, “Oh, why do you bother playing basketball?” to non-NBA players, as if the fact that one can’t (or doesn’t) compete on that level invalidates the sheer pleasure of hitting a jumper or scrambling for a loose ball. In the same way, putting together a story brings a sense of satisfaction, whether you’re Peter David (a prominent Trek writer) or David Peter (a guy who lives in a nearby town).

For others, though, it’s more a confidence builder. While I was writing my own material long before I picked up fan fiction as a hobby, I know any number of young writers who found their voice and enthusiasm because of Star Trek, X-MEN, Smallville or Buffy/Angel. A few have since moved on to their own work, and are profiting thereby—having said that their fan fiction experience was both invaluable and a wonderful time in their lives. Some of these even continue to write both publishable material and the stuff that got them their start… because the characters, though not theirs, still compel them.

So if you’re one of those people who still just don’t get it, well, take my advice… and take the title of this mini-essay to heart.