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?
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.
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.
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!
