Just going to preface this by saying this is me going on a rant. I just saw something that bothered me and I need to get my thoughts out on the matter.
I recently saw a post criticizing fanfic writers for writing Christmas fics about ancient Chinese characters. Basically saying that instead of learning about the culture and writing something true to the characters culture we are spreading our Christian infested thoughts (my words not theirs, but the crux of the post).
First off, it is not a novel concept that fic writers like to combine two things they enjoy. So if someone wants to combine these two topics, what is the big deal? No it’s not a Chinese holiday, but I think we all need to remember that fic writers are doing this in their spare time - we don’t have hours to research all the nuances of certain cultures or maybe some just aren’t comfortable writing about another culture that isn’t their own.
Furthermore, if you are upset about Christmas fics with ancient Chinese characters, what about Halloween fics? What about Hanukkah fics? Shouldn’t these also be deemed unacceptable? Or if it’s the Christianity aspect that’s the problem, what about Lord of the Rings AUs (Tolkien incorporated his faith into his novels)? Or Twilight AUs (with morman views)? Are all of these also unacceptable?? It just boggles my mind why people can’t let others enjoy themselves. This is a hobby. We do it for fun. If writing a Christmas fic makes someone happy, let them do it! Don’t read it if you don’t like it. Why is it so wrong for someone to combine two things they love?
Also, just because people celebrate Christmas does not mean they are Christians. I am an atheist and because of religious trauma in my past I despise Christianity (I am aware not all of it is bad and it is something I need to work on but it has left a permanent sourness inside me). To me, Christmas isn’t about religion. It’s about being with family and friends and simply enjoying time with each other and the traditions we share. If I want to spread that Christmas cheer by writing a fic with my two gay idiots, so what? If you want a more accurate interpretation of Chinese themes, then write that fic!! I’d love to read it and learn more about Chinese traditions.
With that being said, in no way am I trying to demean other holidays or cultures that don’t celebrate Christmas. As a writer, one of the biggest tips is to write what you know. I know Christmas and maybe I wanted to share those cozy Christmas vibes with others. If it’s not for you, don’t read it. Block me. Do what you got to do, but don’t rain on someone’s parade for simply writing about two things they enjoy. Again, I have nothing against other cultures or holidays. In fact, if you celebrate a different holiday, tell me about it in the comments! I’d love to hear about it.
Regardless of what you celebrate, I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season!
And fic writers! Keep writing~