An argument against “writing for yourself”
I don’t like the way the term “write for yourself” is used in fandom spaces to suggest that fanfic authors should be creative martyrs who tirelessly produce art without the need for validation or interaction from readers.
Yes, write for yourself. Do not chain your self-worth to the shackles of popularity. There lies misery and creative death. Make art about things which inspire you. Make art you expect no one will read.
But once you put those things out into the world, there is nothing wrong with having an earnest hope that the world will give something back to you for your efforts, that readers will engage with your work in some positive way, *especially* in fandom spaces where art is created entirely for free.
To say that fanfic authors should not desire kudos, comments, or any praise whatsoever I think denies the very purpose of art. It is a human expression immortalized by the effort the writer takes to transfer it from their head to the written page so that others might enjoy it. That is no easy task. Consider how many people die with full novels written on their hard drives that they never got the nerve to share. Sharing your work is an immense act of courage and optimism, and I think that alone deserves to be acknowledged.
The way I think of it is that I write for myself (and yes, some things I write ONLY for myself, and there is nothing wrong with that), but I edit, polish, and post my works for others. There would be no reason to perfect my meaning if there was no audience, because I will always understand myself and what I’m trying to say, but you may not, and bridging that gap takes hard work, dedication, and courage.
What I’m trying to say is please let your fanfic writers know you care. Let them know their effort is not being deposited into an empty void. Comment, kudos, like and subscribe, shout from the rooftops.
Writers, don’t base your self worth on the popularity of your art, but never be shamed into believing it’s wrong to want that engagement in fandom spaces where knowing you moved, inspired, or touched others is the only compensation you will ever receive.
