Exploring Fanfiction Tropes: A Personal Look at Favorites and Least-Loved Plots

Disclaimer: I may have weird tastes. Viewer discretion is advised.

Favorite Fanfiction Tropes

As a fanfiction enthusiast, I have a diverse array of favorite tropes that can surprise and satisfy my cravings for creative storytelling. Here are some of the tropes I cherish most:

Betrayal Fic

Betrayal fic is one of my absolute favorites. The essence of these stories is the unexpected and often devastating betrayal of a character's loved ones. This trope leads to profound character development and adds an element of pain and resilience to the narrative. The journey from trust to skepticism and back to eventual redemption is explosive and deeply moving.

Enemies to Lovers

The 'Enemies to Lovers' (E2L) trope is another staple of my favorite fanfiction types. These stories follow protagonists who have a long history of animosity. The writing often delves into the complexities of their relationship, exploring why they disliked each other so much and how they eventually come to realize that their feelings have evolved in unexpected ways. This trope not only provides a satisfying resolution but also gives us a glimpse into how relationships can be transformed by shared experiences and mutual understanding.

Customer Generated Content (Crack Fic)

Crack fic is a category of fanfiction that is often characterized by its odd and humorous content. It is more than just a lighthearted escape; it is a genre that pushes boundaries and explores the idiosyncrasies of characters in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Some crack fics I've enjoyed include BDSM Carebears, a particularly quirky and under-the-radar example that I found unexpectedly delightful despite its initial appearance as something I wouldn't usually enjoy.

Dark Fic

Dark fic is a genre that can be quite somber, often exploring themes that delve into the darker, more introspective aspects of a story. While these stories can be intense and challenging, they serve a crucial purpose in expanding the emotional landscape of the original work. I am currently writing a dark fic that is not only darker than the original but also brings a fresh perspective to the narrative. This genre is perfect for those who thrive on exploring depth and complexity in storytelling.

Death Fic

Death fic, as the name suggests, is a fiction centered around the death of a character. These stories can be deeply moving and often explore themes of loss, grief, and the consequences of certain events. Although these stories can be painful and challenging to read, they offer a profound sense of catharsis and emotional range.

Drabbles

Drabbles are a form of fanfiction that consists of short stories, typically around 100 words. Their brevity and ease of reading make them a favorite for those who enjoy quick and impactful storytelling. These mini-stories can be standalone pieces or part of a larger collection, each offering a unique glimpse into the lives and relationships of the characters.

Dead Dove

The 'Dead Dove' trope is one that is morally questionable and often unethical. It involves characters engaging in activities that are not onlyampie but also harmful to the storyline and the characters. While some readers might find enjoyment in such content, it is a trope I personally avoid due to its ethical implications and potential to upset others.

Hurt Fic

Hurt fic is a genre that focuses on the pain and suffering of the main character. These stories can depict physical, emotional, or psychological harm, often leading to a sense of catharsis or resolution. While they can be intense and difficult to read, hurt fics offer a powerful exploration of the human condition and the resilience of the characters.

Soulmate AU Fic

Soulmate AU fic is a genre that centers around protagonists who are meant to be together in an alternate universe. These stories often explore the "what if" scenarios of a relationship that was predestined to be. The dedication and commitment displayed in these stories can be heartwarming and uplifting, providing a sense of resolution and hope.

Slash Fic

Slash fic involves the pairing of two characters of the same sex, regardless of their original canon pairing. While I enjoy a good narrative, I tend to curate my reading material to avoid unnecessary and low-quality content. This genre, when executed well, can offer a fresh perspective and an exploration of different types of relationships.

Lesst Favorite Fanfiction Tropes

Around the vast expanse of fanfiction, there are several tropes that I find less than desirable. Here are a few of the least favorite tropes:

Self-Insert

Self-insert fic can be an appealing concept, but it often falls flat when the reader is inserted into the story without a clear and engaging narrative. These stories can be frustrating and lack depth, especially when they focus on uninteresting or underdeveloped characters.

Series Fic

Series fic, while it can offer a satisfying continuity, can also be tedious when there are multiple sequels. The quality of writing can vary, and sometimes the effort to create additional stories becomes repetitive, detracting from the original narrative's impact.

There Is Only One Bed

This trope involves characters being forced to share a bed for various reasons. While it can add an element of tension and intimacy, it can also be predictable and lacking in originality if handled poorly. Creative ways to explore this trope can make it more engaging, but it often falls flat when the characters are not developed enough to make the situation compelling.

Meta Fic

Meta fic, which removes the fourth wall, can be intellectually stimulating but can also be overwhelming if not handled carefully. These stories often require a different approach to reading and can be difficult to fully appreciate without a real understanding of the original narrative's context.

Rule 63

The Rule 63 trope involves a female character in a position where she is paired with an opposite-sex version of a male character. While the concept can be intriguing, its implementation is often disappointing. The trade-off for exploring different perspectives can overshadow the inherent character flaws and plot weaknesses, leading to a less engaging story.

Conclusion

There is a rich and varied landscape of fanfiction tropes, each offering a unique and often entertaining experience. While I have particular tastes, it's clear that the genre has much to offer for those who enjoy pushing the boundaries of storytelling. Whether it is the excitement of a betrayal or the comfort of a hurt/comfort fic, there is a fanfiction trope for everyone to enjoy.