Fanfiction: is it about creativity, or about imitation? · 4:20am Jul 21st, 2015
The question above is simple for me to answer, and if you have followed me for a long time you know exactly what I think on the subject... more or less, it's kinda hard to understand a pissed off ranting brony sometimes. Anyway, today it's not a rant, because I wasn't offended by anyone, instead I got into a very respectful conversation about it.
The question stands though, do you think that fanfiction is about exploring the untold possibilities, about taking your favorite subject and going absolutely insane with creative exploration? I mean over half of the things that I write are just that, and filled with so many different ideas. In one story Fluttershy and Trixie might be sisters who bonded in an orphanage, in another Fluttershy was raised by Bear, the yoga instructor. Honestly, we all know that these kinds of things would never be cannon, but they are still awesome idea's.
However, the other side of this is also simple to understand, even if it would kill the most popular fanfictions ever to exist. But it's valid in its own way. Fanfictions that stick as closely to the show as possible, that attempt to imitate the feeling and style of the show are really good. Sure we won't ever see any of the awesome idea's that I'm a fan of, but there is merit in these chapters as they are very fun to read and feel familiar. I unfortunately have never actually written one of these, but I have read a story once that... almost fit into this category. (Rarity had a book on her head.)
So I pose this question to you, my faithful followers; what do you think fanfiction should be about? Exploring every possible thing you can, or trying to write stories that are similar to the show?
I know this question is kinda dumb to ask considering that you are following my crazy flank, but you know, thought I'd ask. XD
I write just for fun because to me it's a way to let out my creativity with characters I'm familar with. I enjoy reading comments and talking to others like me. Sure some people write about their headcannons, what it would be like to live there, their favorite characters, and it's all great. I love this community and creativity, and in the end we are all having fun. At least that's what I believe.
Is fanfiction about creativity or Imitation you ask? I feel as though the question is wrong.
Without creativity, you are writing episode transcripts.
Without Imitation, you are writing original fiction with no relation to source material.
Ultimately, both have their place, and both are equally necessary to write fanfiction.
Now, in the great game of mixing and matching how much weight to either the writer wants to give for their story, that is only up to the writer. There is no right or wrong in that regard, it will still be fanfiction.
3257282 After disappearing yesterday, I got into a conversation with one of my friends about this issue. Basically the question shouldn't be which is right to write, but rather it should be something more along the lines of; Which is more important, Theme matching, or genera matching.
3257226 I like your spirit. XD