alt.tv.x-files.creative Interview with Denise
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| Interviews by Fans | |
|---|---|
| Title: | not specifically titled as such |
| Interviewer: | Dee |
| Interviewee: | Denise |
| 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 Denise's Responses
Would you write a fic if you didn't think anyone else would read it? Absolutely! As I said in my first response, I write most often because I have something to work out personally. I find that putting fictional characters in my own shoes, I can better figure out how to proceed in my own life. I can be better educated on what possible responses I could receive if I were to react in one way or another. Sure I can do this in my head... but its easier on paper -- or rather computer screen.
I'm not going to lie to you and say that when someone doesn't like my work it doesn't sting. Because it does. I'm very protective of the things I create, and what people think of me and my work is important on many levels. However, if someone gives me a negative comment, I can investigate WHY they gave me that comment. Did what I wrote offend them personally or did I make a grave error in judgement? Is their unfavorable comments something I can take and use as a learning tool? If they unabashedly flame me or possibly criticize in public... yeah, like I said it'll hurt. Their comments don't help me, they only threaten to hurt me. But my motto has become "Get over it." There are bigger things in life to worry about to spend my time sulking over something like that. I will most likely email them personally (unless, of course, I feel public acknowledgement is what is in order), and question why they did what they did and hope to resolve the matter in a way that we both agree upon and go on. I will probably hesitate when I go to post a new story... but it will not stop me from writing.
As for the plagiarism thing... well I think that being accused of plagiarism is *most often* a compliment. (I mean, how many people plagiarize bad stuff?) While I'd probably end up looking bad, because defending yourself of such an accusation is almost impossible -- not that I wouldn't try my darndest to do so -- I'd know the truth and that is what is most important, in my opinion. 'To thine own self be true' and all that.