My question: Is fanfiction helpful to aspiring writers, or does it hurt?  I've heard people vehemently opposed to the very idea, and those who gush over their latest masterpieces.  What do you think?  I suppose my opinion is that originality is always better, but fanfiction will help you in the way that any writing helps you: practice, practice, practice.

(And I know we're supposed to avoid actual fanfiction within earshot of Jim on the forums, but I figured a discussion about its uses couldn't hurt.)

If people were trying to plagerize and steal characters etc, I could see folks being down on the fan-fiction.

Most of the stuff I've read is just writers wanting to express themselves with characters they love. I've done much the same, though I'm such a nervy creature I keep all mine hidden at home where only my Hubby may ever see it.    

Fan-fiction for me is just exercise, just like doing some yoga or working with weights. When it works, you end up with a little magic.  You feel kinda good, the way a nice round with weights or a good game of hoops makes you feel. I dont think writing fan-fiction cheats, or is in anyway a kind of laziness. It can be very challenging, and rewarding.

Like Jim I keep the focus on any writing on the craft of it more than just kicking up my heels. That's what a work out does, isn't it?


Kilsokwa

Just wanted to mention something I saw at a bookstore that might be useful for authors in crafting "magical theories" or spellwork.

Its called "The Elemental Book of 5,000 spells"

You can find it on Amazon easy. Looks like fun.


Enjoy

Kilsokwa