Yatrakis C. Fan fictions, fandoms, and literature: or, why it’s time to pay attention to fan fiction

Chicago, Illinois: Department of English College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, DePaul University, 2013. — 71 p.While issues of plagiarism are inherently related to fan fiction, fandoms have developed a culture the dictates what is allowed to guide writers and the participatory nature of fan fiction creates an área that can police itself while providing a safe space for amateurs to develop their skills. Even though fan fiction remains firmly in the amateur, lowbrow sphere, the literary practices used to develop it as well the Interpretations and understandings it can produce contribute to the greater fields of writing and cultural studies. Fan fiction’s continued growth not only as a form of reading/writing, but as a sort of cultural representation of otherwise subverted voices proves its value as a writing medium. The ease of entry acts as an equalizing force, allowing anyone interested entry, and the established norms of fan fiction help create an environment of learning and growth.