Does fanfiction kill creativity?

[amalthia]

I read a newsgroup discussion about fanfiction and one guy posted that people who write fanfiction are killing their creativity. This thought bothered me because well I write fan fiction and the thought that i"m purposely killing my creativity is sort of scary. I already feel like I don't have much to begin with. However, the kinder people in the discussion pointed out that many teachers use fan fiction to help their students to start writing. That it's more intimidating to create your own world and characters.

Then today while I'm trying to write a bit my mom comes into the room and starts telling me I need to apply for graduate schools or a real job...I've already applied to Law School and I'm now waiting for the results to know if I got in or not...it's killing me. My mom keeps giving me suggestions on what to do, and when I finally take one, she keeps bothering me! Grrrr...

I already have a job, and no it's not intellectually challenging as much as it is nerve wracking, but I'm getting money enough to pay my credit cards and bills.

It's still tough to concentrate on writing at home. And I'm constantly plagued by doubts. Wondering if I'll be a better writer if I get more education, or worked in journalism, hell just wrote more often and not just in my live journal. :)

Maybe I should try writing excersises. My mom is great at tearing down confidence. :(

sigh... I can't wait until my dad returns from Iraq.

Comments

[lycoris.livejournal.com]

I don't think for a minute you are killing your creativity by writing fanfiction. I think you are practising writing and probably becoming a better writer by writing fanfiction. I got into fanfiction a couple of years ago and I've been writing it ever since. I was writing before then. Well, I've never lost my original ideas for a start but also, when I look at the fanfiction I used to post - bloody hell, URGH! I have grown in talent so much just by writing continous fanfiction. And that means that when I write a proper original story, I will like it and am then more likely to get it published because it will actually be GOOD.

That's my perspective anyway!

lol

[amalthia]

I know exactly what you mean! My earlier fan fiction is definately not as good as my newer stuff and I think if I keep writing I'll improve even more so. Maybe, someday I'll cringe when I read my harry potter story. :)

I'd forgotten I wrote this post. Thanks for your optimistic viewpoint. :)

Re: lol

[lycoris.livejournal.com]

Maybe. But maybe not! You never know what's going to happen in the future so just enjoy the present when it comes to writing!

Glad to help! :)

quick message

[amalthia]

which email address did you use??? I didn't get any emails from you, just the livejournal comments.

Re: quick message

[lycoris.livejournal.com]

Em....you E-mailed me...about Reptile I think. I answered from there...aw bugger, I'll go and check now.

Re: quick message

[amalthia]

I sent an email to you using this address empressoftheeclipse@yahoo.co.uk

I think it's the one you emailed to me.

Re: quick message

[lycoris.livejournal.com]

I got the E-mails! I'll be answering ASAP! :)