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Books / Re: Fan Fiction: Good or Evil
« on: March 27, 2009, 02:04:41 PM »
I haven't read this whole thread since I posted on the first page, but here's what else I have to say about fan fiction:
I had "coffee" with Kevin J. Anderson once (he drank coffee, Brandon and I snacked on M&Ms), and I asked him what had been more fulfilling for him -- writing in persistent worlds like Star Wars or Dune, or writing his original material. He half dodged the question, but I had carefully crafted it to be nonjudgemental and not an issue of talent. The half of the answer that wasn't dodging basically said that he had enjoyed doing both.
Look, if you want to write professionally, I agree with bookstore guy. Either do original stuff or write for someone so you get paid.
But some people who write, just like some musicians, just do it as a hobby and never want to be pro. I say let 'em write what they want. they're only doing it to enjoy themselves.
I had "coffee" with Kevin J. Anderson once (he drank coffee, Brandon and I snacked on M&Ms), and I asked him what had been more fulfilling for him -- writing in persistent worlds like Star Wars or Dune, or writing his original material. He half dodged the question, but I had carefully crafted it to be nonjudgemental and not an issue of talent. The half of the answer that wasn't dodging basically said that he had enjoyed doing both.
Look, if you want to write professionally, I agree with bookstore guy. Either do original stuff or write for someone so you get paid.
But some people who write, just like some musicians, just do it as a hobby and never want to be pro. I say let 'em write what they want. they're only doing it to enjoy themselves.