Fandom For Dummies

A  Documentary of Six Fandom Archetypes

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Bee: The Writer

How old were you when you discovered you were a writer?

Do you remember the first fanfiction you ever read?

What is your opinion on fanfiction being attached to “the fifty shades stigma” right now?

What was your most difficult piece to write and why?

Who your favorite character to write for and why?

If you could write for any of your fandoms...which one would it be?  

This interview was conducted over video chat on Facebook messenger. Bee is a 21 year old fanfiction author from Malta who writes wildly popular  SwanQueen(The non-canon, normally romantic pairing of Emma Swan and Regina Mills from the show Once Upon A Time) fics. She is a very active member of the LGBT side of the fiercely divided Once fandom and receives many comments from her readers on a daily basis.

http://archiveofourown.org/users/bernicevella64

  Lauren: So...standard question. How old were you when you discovered you were a writer?

Bee: I always had this imagination to make stories but I was 13 when I first put them on paper.

L: That’s awesome. Okay...do you remember the first fanfiction you’ve ever read?

B: I was 15. My friend from school and I were super into WWE and we talked about it through Twitter. I had a favorite wrestler that went by the viper or something snakelike. There was a community we were a part of on twitter and we found a fic that was about an oc by the name of Ivy having an affair with him.

L: Ivy, huh?

B: She was nothing like my character Ivy. (Rolls eyes)

L: (laughs) Noted...Anyway, this question is a bit of a doozy. What is your opinion on fanfiction being attached to the whole “fifty shades stigma” right now?

B: Oh boy…(sighs) Here’s the thing because I do believe this is important. You’re free to do whatever you want. In Magic Collides(Bee’s most popular work) I didn’t have the desire to research the birthing process for the scene when Regina has the baby. Before the chapter there’s a disclaimer that I know nothing about giving birth and it’s not accurate. You know it’s an inaccurate source. What happened with 50 shades...was that it began as a Twilight fanfiction. Which is already a red flag. I am on two fanfiction Facebook groups. And one for Swan Queen in general that posts fanfiction frequently. And one of the things we celebrate is when a fic becomes a novel. I can give you five right off the bat. It gives us all hope. But E.L. James got cocky. There’s no disclaimer in the novel that it is inaccurate information.

L: So you don’t care about the fanfiction stigma. You’re more worried about people getting hurt because of the misinformation?

B:Yes. Because it’s 2017. So what? People are gay and married. I don’t care about the fanfiction stigma because that’s just being prudish. BDSM going wrong is going to be more harmful than people thinking we’re writing sex scenes.

L: I love it. And completely agree.  Alrighty...Next question! What was your most difficult piece to write and why?

B: No piece is a walk in the park. Some scenes tear you to shreds. In relation to the story itself, I would say the piece Broken. The character going through the most of the pain is an original character that is very close to my heart. When I wrote for the Glee fandom...I was working on a faberry fic(The romantic pairing of Glee’s Rachel Berry and Quinn Fabray)and as you know, the faberry fandom had a tendency to “bash” Finn(Rachel’s main canonical love interest) to make it easier to put Quinn and Rachel together. Now mind you, this meant I had no lack of respect for the actor Cory Monteith. He was just doing his job. But before I could make Finn the villain...Cory died. I couldn’t find it in myself to bash Finn. I kept trying to ask myself: “What am I going to do with Finn?” I couldn’t kill him. So I had him move away but I never finished the piece. When I began writing When Magic Collides 2 years ago,  I was in school and had to repeat the year, my depression hit a high. Because of what I was going through I couldn’t write. Took me months to get past it. People left me comments asking me to update. And then a crazy thing happened, my writing pulled me out of my depression. I quit school but I kept writing. I just finished it last November.

  L: So right before you sent me that email? And we started talking again?

B: Yeah. I had almost forgotten that was in November.

L: It was. November 8th. I still have it. Anyway, I feel like I might know the answer to this question but I’m going to ask it...who is your favorite character to write for and why?

B: You don’t know the answer to this. I’m really bad at picking favorites. I’ve had three favorite colors throughout my life and I don’t have a favorite song. But I’ll have to with…(sighs) Regina Mills and Meg.

L: Mhmmm and why is that?

B: Meg is an extension of me. She started out as a reason to get close to Regina. She’s a part of me that won’t ever be me but she doesn’t need to be.

L: (smiles) And Regina?

Bee: (laughs) It’s hard to put it into words. With Regina I can’t voice it. She’s really beautiful and really gay. And Lana does an amazing job with her. (Lana Parilla portrays her on the show) She’s such an incredible, intense and passionate character. I connect with her because all she really wants is her freedom and to be in lovc. Tragedy happens and then she becomes(scoffs and uses air quotes) “evil”. It’s what made her go from sweet, happy, and innocent Regina to the Evil Queen. But there’s also Regina Mills the hero and mother. I loved her the second I saw her.

 L: I didn’t. Took me till season 2.

B: Not me. The moment I saw her, I was in love.

L: Now, for you final question...I’m pretty sure I know the answer to this too. If you could write for any of your fandoms, which one would it be?

B:(laughs) Once...But I’d need a time machine first.

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Liz: The Cynic

What is your opinion on how fandom affects relationships now?

Do you feel as if people have gotten over sensitive in the media?

Do you feel that fan creative works have any value in society? Why or why not?

How young or old should people be to get involved in fandom?

What is the most extreme case of fan you’ve ever seen with your own eyes?

Does this subculture matter? Why or why not?

This interview was conducted on Reading Day in the Tunxis Library as Liz did math homework beside me. Liz is 26 years old and is often rolling her eyes at my fangirl shenanigans.  Then again she's an out and proud Slytherin...

Liz: (Eyes on her screen) Okay...Go.

Lauren: So...First question. What is your opinion on how fandom affects relationships.

Liz: (Laughs) What does that even mean?

Lauren: Shit. That question was kind of dumb...Let’s skip that one.

Liz:(Shakes her head at my antics and then nods)

Lauren: Do you feel people have gotten over sensitive in the media?

Liz: (Smirks and laughs a little) Yes.

Lauren: Cool. Do you feel that fan creative works have any value in society? Why or why not?

Liz: I guess...I think all creative works have value. Because art shows how society is being affected politically and socially.

Lauren: (Smiles) Perfect. So...with the rise of millennial culture in fandom...there’s quite a bit of inclusion of their children in their fandoms. Do you think that’s a good idea? Like...how old or young should people be to get involved in fandom?

Liz: I think that’s just a parental thing. You want your kid to follow you politically and religion wise...So it really has nothing to do with fandom. It’s just a thing that happens as a parent regardless.

Lauren: Huh. Okay then. What is the most extreme case of fan you’ve ever seen with your own eyes? Like nothing from an online article...How far is too far?

Liz: Hmmm...When people are so emotionally invested they forget a world is fiction. When they lose touch with reality and need to get help.

Lauren: Excellent. Final question...Does this subculture matter? Why or why not?

Liz: Yes. Because it’s highly social.. People who have similar interests come together and talk about what they like.

Lauren: Perfect. Thank you!

Liz: Yup. See you later. (logs out and leaves the library)

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Sara: The Ally/Casual Fan

How do you feel about the rise of geek culture?

Do you think it is influencing how our generation thinks about politics?

When were you first aware of avid fans?

Why do you think you’re only a casual fan?

Do you think fandom matters?

Have you ever been to a fan convention and if not would you be willing to go or would it be too overwhelming?

This interview was conducted over a voice call via Facebook Messenger. Sara is a 22 year old graduate of Amherst College with a bachelor’s in Pre-Med minoring in Philosophy. We have known each other for nearly 15 years.

Lauren: How do you feel about the rise of geek culture?

Sara: Geek culture?

L: As in the fact that being a nerd isn’t a bad thing anymore.

S: Well overall intelligence is important. And I think it’s a good thing that people can be passionate about things but I do worry about it becoming too mainstream.

L: Really? How so?

S: I think if it becomes too mainstream it could resort to bullying.

L: Huh. Never thought about that. So...Like people just wearing glasses to actually make fun of people?

S:Something like that yeah.

L: That’s a very interesting perspective, Sara. I’ll remember that. Question 2...do you think geek culture is influencing how our generation thinks about politics?

S: I don’t know. That’s a good one. I’m not sure how the two intersect.

L: Personally this question makes me think of the current political climate and Harry Potter.

  S: Ah. Yes. I can see that. Voldemort and the Hunger Games did give us a big perspective on that and what might happen.

 L: Yeah. I saw a lot of stuff that was like: Be the hero you read about.

S: I think I saw those too.

L: Next question...when were you first aware of avid fans?

S: Harry Potter. The midnight book releases. My parents never let me go.

L: Same here. Question 4. Why do you think you’re only a casual fan? What’s up with that, Sara?

S: I don’t know...I ‘spose time mostly. But I also didn’t want to get too attached.

L: Fair. I do remember your Say Yes to the Dress phase though…

  S: Oh my god yeah.(laughs) I cried for like a week over a fictional breakup and it was concerning.

L: (smiles) Second to last question...Do you think fandom matters?

S: Yes. Absolutely. Identity and community are important.

L:Okay so the last question may come off as unprofessional because I would totally help with this but it can just be hypothetical.

S: Okay…

L: Have you ever been to a fan convention and would you be willing to go to one?

 S: I have not. But I’d love to.

L: Awesome. Todd’s here. I gotta go. I’ll talk to you later!

S: Bye!

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Lily: The Artist

How old were you when you started doing artwork on a regular basis?

What was the first fandom you were a part of?

What was the most difficult piece of fan art you’ve done so far? Why was it difficult?

How has fandom influenced how you make art?

Who do you find yourself drawing lately?

Why does fanart matter?

This interview was conducted on Facebook Messenger via video chat. Lily is a 20 year old artist who is currently attending Western Connecticut State University. She’s an avid DC comics fan and is proficient in many forms of art. Her best friend Taylor happened to be visiting her during the interview.

Lauren: How old were you when you started doing artwork on a regular basis?

Lily: 12.

Taylor: 11 and a half.

Lauren: (smiles) Perfect. What was the first fandom you were a part of?

Lily:Um...Hetalia, right? (Looks at Taylor)

 Taylor: Yup. Definitely.

Lauren: Excellent. What was the most difficult piece of fan art you’ve done so far? Why was it difficult?

Lily: I had to make a Dr. Who themed billboard in sophomore year of high school. It was difficult because I’ve never used photoshop before. It was pretty good.

Lauren: So it still holds up?

Lily: Well, no. I don’t have it anymore. I just remember thinking it was good. But it got messed up during the art show so I had to get rid of it.

Lauren: Ah. So...How has fandom influenced how you make art?

Lily: I’ve learned how to work with different styles and stances.

Lauren: Great. Who do you find yourself drawing lately?

Lily: Starfire.

Lauren: (laughs) Final question...Why does fanart matter?

Lily: Because it’s a way of creative expression.

Taylor: It’s way to start from-

Lauren: A baseline?

Lily: Yeah.

Lauren: Awesome. Thank you so much, Lily.

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Margot: The Cosplayer

What was your first fandom?

How old were you when you began cosplay?

What is the most expensive thing that you have to buy for cosplay in general that would surprise people?

What is your opinion on sexy cosplay? Should there be a line?

Gender lines are no longer lines...how do you feel about that as a cosplayer?

Why does cosplay matter?

This interview was conducted on Facebook Messenger via voice call. Margot is a 22 year old cosplayer with a love for art and animals.

Lauren: What was your first fandom?

Margot: Hamtaro. Digimon and Pokemon are up there too.

  L: Anime from the beginning, huh? (laughs) Cool. How old were you when you began cosplay?

M: 14. I think it really becomes cosplay when it’s not Halloween.

L: I agree. What is the most expensive thing you have to buy for cosplay in general that would surprise people?

M: I’ve bought fabrics that cost me like $30-$40. And good lace front wigs are about the same.

L: Wow! That’s crazy! So...I don’t necessarily agree with the implications of this question but...What is your opinion on sexy cosplay? Should there be a line?

M: Go for it! As long as you’re of age and you feel comfortable I’m all for it. What I don’t like is the demand for it.

L:The male fanbase?

M: Exactly.

L: Right...So you’ll probably love this question. Gender lines are no longer lines...how do you feel about that as a cosplayer?

M: There’s always been fluidity in this community. Guys dressed as girls and girls dressed as guys...I love that.

L: I’ve never thought about that. But you’re right. Okay...final question! Why does cosplay matter?

M: It’s an art of self expression. It also teaches you how to sew. You have to be a jack of all trades. It’s a big investment too. You have to be committed.

L: I love it! Thank you so much, Margot!

M: Have a nice day, Lauren!

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Hayleigh: The General Fan

How old were you when you fell into fandom?

Are you still active in your first fandom?

How is your life different because of the fandom community?

Can you remember the first fanfiction you ever read?

What your most difficult and expensive cosplay accomplishment?

Why does fandom matter?

The Interview was conducted on Facebook messenger. Hayleigh is a 21 year cosplayer, renfaire enthusiast with a drive for acting, singing and modeling. She has both a Facebook and Instagram specifically for cosplay.

Lauren: Hey. I just wrote out my interview questions if you want to do the thing.

Hayleigh: Hit me! I'm doing hw rn but I can answer.

L:How old were you when you fell into fandom?

H:Oh man... 8? I was introduced to Harry Potter when I was super small, but I had always loved comics and classic TV shows, and I always loved Disney, so probably since before that even.So, counting disney, since before i could walk!

L:Well that answers my second question lol...are you still active in your first fandom?

H:I am! I just recently did two different Belle cosplays, with plans for more. Disney is such a large and encompassing fandom, it's really hard to fall out of love with it.

L:I completely agree! Speaking of...how is your life different because of the fandom community?

H:Oh man... Fandom and cosplay (two things I connect pretty heavily) have changed my life for the better. While there are always going to be some toxic fans, the majority of them are positive and supportive and wonderful! At a con, it's not uncommon for people to start conversations or take pictures of you while you're either in cosplay or wearing a fandom shirt and it's such a bonding experience.

L:Also I don’t believe you and I would even know each other if not for fandom.

H:Very true.

L:Can you remember the first fanfiction you ever read?

H:It was a Dramione(The romantic pairing of Hermione Granger and Draco Malfoy) one. I'm awful, I know.

L:No judgment. I’ve written and read worse. You’ll like this question… What was your most difficult and expensive cosplay accomplishment?

H:Oh man... that would probably be my Belle ballgown. Sunk a couple hundred dollars into that thing, had it  made by a dear friend of mine (@k.c.cosplay on instagram) and I got great pictures with it, even though it got trashed in just a few hours at New York Comic Con. Veeeerrryy close second at Steampunk Belle, which was also made by KC and that was just a looot of bells and whistles that made it expensive.(also, i'm driving for a little bit so I won't be able to respond right away, but i'll respond i promise!

L:I have one last question. And it’s probably my favorite. Why does fandom matter?

H:Oh man, why does fandom matter... Fandom is so important to so many lives. It's a community. It's a family. It's an escape for those who need it, a haven for those who can't find it anywhere else. It's a beautiful compilation art and wonder and creativity, and it's a little corner of the world where you can be as intense a fan as you want or as relaxed a fan as you want. It's great.

L:Great! Thanks Hayleigh! I can’t wait to include this in my script

H:Also, shameless plug:  https://www.instagram.com/harleynoxcosplay/on insta and facebook!  https://www.facebook.com/harleynoxcosplay  http://cosplay-witchery.tumblr.com/  on tumblr!

L:I’ll make sure to put it on the blog

H: <3