now some oc writers are using the âx readerâ tag and giving the excuse that âitâs just a different perspective.â it doesnât matter if you use that tag IF YOUâRE NOT INCLUDING THE READER! YOU have your own tag, leave us alone.
the âx readerâ tag exists so that readers of any background, appearance, or identity can immerse themselves in a story and feel included as the main character.
when you write a story centered around your own original character, with a defined name, personality, and often a specific appearance, youâre no longer inviting the reader to step into that role, youâre writing about your character, not the reader. thatâs completely fine! writing oc content is valid and has its own space.
but misusing the âx readerâ tag to gain visibility or clicks is misleading. it sets the wrong expectations and excludes readers who were looking for stories where they could truly see themselves in the narrative. if your story focuses on your oc, label it honestly.
use the âoc x canonâ tag or âoriginal characterâ thereâs no shame in that. but please stop co-opting a space thatâs meant to be inclusive and flexible for all readers, especially those who are often underrepresented in fiction. the âx readerâ tag is not a blank slate for oc projection.
itâs meant to include everyone, not just your creative vision.
respect your audience. tag responsibly.
NOTE: writing in another point of view like âSHE/HE went to the marketâ instead of âYOU went to the marketâ does not count as âx reader.â
(not 100% but most of the time) donât try to be clever or sneaky about it.
NOTE 2: by the way, regarding the second image, itâs great to see more asian, black, and mixed ocâs! but even so, that still doesnât make it a reader insert, let alone fit the tag. the reader needs to be the main character.
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