Exploring the Differences Between Normal and AU Fan Fiction

There are numerous subgenres within the fan fiction community, each with its distinct characteristics and appeal. Two of the most prominent and popular subgenres are normal fan fiction and Alternate Universe (AU) fan fiction. This article delves into the key differences between these two forms, providing insights and examples to help readers better understand and appreciate these subgenres.

The Distinction Between Normal and AU Fan Fiction

The primary difference between normal fan fiction and Alternate Universe AU fan fiction lies in their approach to the source material. While normal fan fiction tends to stick closely to the original story's characters and settings, AU fan fiction can create an entirely new context that changes the characters' lives and relationships significantly.

Normal Fan Fiction

Normal fan fiction, often referred to as canon-based, adheres closely to the original story's framework. Here are some key aspects of this subgenre:

Character Consistency: Characters generally retain their original traits, relationships, and histories, even if the plot deviates from the original work. Depth and Exploration: The story may explore events that were not covered in the original work, delve deeper into character backgrounds, or create new scenarios within the established universe.

Alternate Universe (AU) Fan Fiction

AU fan fiction, as its name suggests, involves creating a different universe where the original characters live in altered circumstances. Here are the defining features of this subgenre:

Alternate Universe: The setting or circumstances are significantly changed from the original work. This can involve different time periods, genres, or situations that alter the characters' lives and relationships. Creative Freedom: Characters may behave differently or take on new roles that wouldn't occur in the original story. For example, a story might reimagine characters as superheroes, historical figures, or in a different cultural context.

Why Do People Write AUs?

The reasons behind why authors choose to write Alternate Universe fan fiction are diverse and often rooted in personal interests and storytelling goals. Here are two common motivations:

To Create Story Continuity

Authors writing stories that blend elements from their favorite continuities often create AUs. This can feel like an expansion of the original universe, providing a longer, more cohesive narrative. For example, Sonic the Hedgehog has had numerous official comics and cartoons over the years, many of which are completely unrelated to each other. Fans who want to tell a longer story often create AUs that combine elements from their favorite continuities, resulting in a narrative that feels like a spinoff of the original stories.

To Adapt Characters to Different Contexts

On the other hand, some AU fan fiction involves adapting characters to contexts that are significantly different from the official versions. For instance, The Powerpuff Girls, the 90s version, did not have a multiverse, making it a unique case for AU fan fiction. Most fanfics revolve around teenage versions of the girls who might be princesses, vampires, or fairies. This AU adaptation shifts the universe in ways that are clearly distinct from the official version, allowing for different interpretations and scenarios involving the characters.

Conclusion

In summary, while normal fan fiction builds upon the existing framework of the original work, AU fan fiction creates an entirely new context that allows for different interpretations and scenarios involving the characters. The choice between these subgenres often depends on the author's storytelling goals and creative vision. Whether it's expanding on a beloved universe or adapting characters to new contexts, AU fan fiction provides a rich avenue for creative expression and narrative exploration.