alt.tv.x-files.creative Interview with Leslie
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| Interviews by Fans | |
|---|---|
| Title: | not specifically titled as such |
| Interviewer: | Dee |
| Interviewee: | Leslie |
| Date(s): | November 29, 2000 |
| Medium: | online |
| Fandom(s): | The X-Files |
| External Links: | original post is here |
| Click here for related articles on Fanlore. | |
In 2000, a fan named Dee asked fanfic writers about their thoughts about writing, specifically feedback.
The excerpts below are from that series of answers.
The original post:
I'd like to direct this questions to fanfic writers: What motivates you to write a story? Do you write a fic because you have a story to tell? Would you write a story for yourself? for an intended audience? Would you write a fic if you didn't think anyone else would read it? The reason I am asking these questions is because I am puzzled by the strong reactions to reader's comments. Does it really matter? Unless you are accused of something horrible, like plagiarism, do the negative/unfavourable comments really matter? I am posting this not incite a riot, I am genuinely interested in what motivates a fic writer to write. [1]
Some of Leslie's Responses
I'd be lying if I said I didn't hope my work would find an audience. I am always thrilled to receive feedback and to find that others enjoy my work. But I don't write FOR the audience (or else I'd have started writing smut by now <g>.). I write about themes that interest me, while hoping others will enjoy my efforts.
I don't suppose [fan comments] matter in any kind of cosmic way. But writers do have feelings, and those feelings can be hurt. As others have said, it takes an enormous amount of courage to post a story, particularly one that is close to your heart. I know that there have been times that I am simply shaking when I open the first feedback letters.
Would you write a fic if you didn't think anyone else would read it? If the idea was persistent enough, yes. For example, I have written character death, which isn't exactly the most popular genre.