The more I engage with other fandoms the more I realize what a unique experience the Sandman fandom, especially Dreamling, was. Is. Not only are the people supremely talented in creating fanart and fanfiction, but also this fandom has some of the funniest, kindest, and smartest people I've ever interacted with. People that I actually want to be friends with IRL.
I am currently reading and interacting more with the Heated Rivalry fanworks, and of course, some of the things I come across are so creative, tender, and funny. But my god the general fandom is toxic. Hunting authors to make AI accusations to the point of forcing them to abandon fics, no boundaries with the actors and exposing old posts or current photos like they won a lottery, abysmal reading comprehension, and such a twisted understanding of life, relationships, and fandom etiquette. It makes me want to be a lurker again.
I want to make fanfic recipes but I'm scared of even messaging anyone. Maybe I'll just post for myself. And that's ok too. My blog is too small for anyone to care about. For many people, including myself, fandom is just an escape from our day job and the seriousness of everyday life. A space for whimsy and to be creative and build community. HR fandom (not talking about book fans) is a young fandom and maybe things will get better. I hope it does.
But I'm glad I have my Sandman friends to come home to at the end of the day, many of whom are HR fans too. I'm really proud of this little community.
