The Value and Definition of Fanfiction: Canon vs. Non-Canon

Many people wonder what it means for a fanfiction to be considered canon. Typically, a work of fanfiction is only acknowledged as canon if the original creators or rights holders of the source material officially designate it. This means that if a fanfiction writer imagines a sequel to a Harry Potter book, the official Harry Potter author is the one who can declare it canon. However, it's important to understand the distinction between canon and non-canon fanfiction and the value it holds for creators and readers alike.

Definition of Canon Fanfiction

The definition of canon fanfiction is fairly straightforward. It is a piece of fanwork that is officially recognized and approved by the copyright holders of the source material. This could include movie studios, book publishers, or TV series producers. When a fanfiction is deemed canon, it means that it is considered part of the official storyline, and future works might build upon it or reference it.

Types of Fanfiction

There are numerous types of fanfiction, ranging from simple continuations of existing stories to entirely new takes on familiar characters and settings. The most common distinction is between canon and non-canon fanfiction. While the former is officially sanctioned, the latter exists in a realm of its own, often allowing for exploring the edges of the source material or even creating entirely new worlds.

The Value of Fanfiction

Despite the term "fanfiction" often carrying a negative connotation, the reality is that there are numerous forms of value in writing and reading fanfiction.

Educational Value

For both writers and readers, there is significant educational value in fanfiction. Writing fanfiction allows individuals to explore and develop their storytelling skills. By immersing themselves in familiar characters and settings, writers can enhance their understanding of narrative construction, character development, and plot intricacies. Reading fanfiction can, in turn, help readers improve their analytical and interpretive skills, as they often delve into nuanced and complex interpretations of beloved stories.

Therapeutic Value

Many writers turn to fanfiction as a form of therapy. By writing characters they are familiar with and exploring familiar themes, individuals can work through personal issues and traumas. This can be particularly helpful for writers who need a safe space to express emotions and thoughts without fear of judgment. Additionally, writing fanfiction can serve as a protective mechanism, allowing individuals to deal with difficult emotions by creating a narrative that serves as a buffer.

Restorative Value

Some writers use fanfiction as a way to restore and modify the outcome of canonical stories. This can be particularly appealing when the original narrative did not meet the reader's expectations or desires. By writing alternative versions, these readers can create a sense of satisfaction and closure. For example, if a reader deeply rooted in the romance between two characters did not get what they wanted, writing a fanfiction where those characters end up together can be incredibly rewarding.

Self-Indulgent Value

Lastly, there is a purely self-indulgent aspect to many pieces of fanfiction. These stories can be very personal and centered on the writer's desires, fantasies, or wishes. While such stories may not be as enjoyable to read from an objective standpoint, the act of writing them can be incredibly rewarding for the creator. By imagining a better ending or a different trajectory, the writer can satisfy their own creative impulses and enjoy the process of writing without the pressure of realism.

In conclusion, while the distinction between canon and non-canon fanfiction is clear, the value of fanfiction extends far beyond its designation as such. For many, it is a valuable form of creative expression, personal therapy, and a means to explore and enhance storytelling skills. Whether through exploration, restoration, or self-indulgence, fanfiction continues to thrive as a vibrant and dynamic form of literature and art.