6 Kinds of Fanfic Writers

Just like original fiction and non-fiction, when it comes to fanfiction, there are several kinds of writers (and this is by no means all-inclusive):

• The Veteran:

  > Has been writing fanfic since before fanfic sites were a thing.

  > Has an overwhelming word count.

  > Warning: Knows cannon. Very very well. Argue with them at your own risk.

• The Content Specialist:

  > Writes according to trends/reader preferences and is pretty good at it.

  > Got a fic request? This is the person you ask.

  > Warning: Writes at blazing speeds. Do not attempt to keep pace with them.

• The Enthusiast:

  > Writes/posts consistently (sometimes on a schedule, but not always).

  > Writes regardless of reader interaction.

  > Warning: Loves the source material, and will tell you so, shamelessly. For hours.

• The Hobbyist:

  > Has been in fanfic for a while but only posts when they feel like it.

  > Encourages others to write what they want.

  > Warning: Confident in themselves as writers. Trolls do not exist to them.

• The Newbie:

  > Has written 1k-10k words of fanfic, probably a one-shot or two.

  > Just starting out. Not very confident but willing to try.

  > Warning: Fragile. Handle with care. Likely does not know how to take criticism yet.

• The Lurker:

  > Writes occasionally.

  > Mostly here to read other fics.

  > Warning: You can visit their profile. But it’s blank.

So, which type of fanfic writer are you? Do one (or more) of these apply? I know at least one fanfic writer in each of these classifications, and in the spirit of the Thanksgiving holiday, I’d like to say I’m thankful for such a varied and colorful community as this one.