Three great fandom-related Dreamwidth links

Here are a few fandom-related posts that caught my eye in the past few days:

in_seclusion:

Fandom was once based on a gift currency agreement, often in the form of fic and fan-art, and a sense of community was fostered around this understanding that this, for the most part, is for free. The understanding of fandom was this is a shared space for enthusiasts of an IP; this is a hobby, something to do in your free time away from whatever else you do in the day. Of course it wasn't without its problems, and the nature of online means you need an internet connection; racism, misogyny, and homophobia in fandom is still a problem today especially in danmei fandom. But the barriers for entry then were just that: a computer and an internet connection, and it's off to the races.

With the current trend of commodification in fandom (outside of danmei), there is a risk of fans simply being priced out by other fans. It’s not to say that fandom goods are not a necessity; they are a luxury. I understand that. I fully support artists who are trying to build their portfolios via commissions. I wholeheartedly oppose any theft of small creators' art and works; there is a special place in hell for people that do nothing but repost content on IG, tiktok, and FB groups. But I think it is still best to acknowledge that the increasing commodification of fandom is erecting barriers to entry where there weren't any previously, and it divides those who can afford it and those who cannot.

theladyscribe:

I know that the cat was out of the bag as soon as it became ~acceptable to ask for money for fic, but god, I wish younger/newer fans (and older fans as well) didn't feel the need to make this great big thing we love part of the hustle. For me, it's one thing to take commissions on works in the physical realm (art prints, craft goods like cosplay and fanbinding, etc.) which cost actual dollars and specialized equipment and not just personal time and effort. But it's another thing entirely to ask for money for fic or meta. No! Don't go there! For the love of god, if you can afford not to, don't make your fandom experience contingent on what your fandom friends can give you. Make it about what you can give to them.

superborb:

I remember that when DW migrations were discussed on twitter, one of the common refrains was not knowing where to start. I feel like friending memes are kind of high pressure because of the expectation of reciprocity if you're totally new! Also, you have to BE THERE when the meme is still active. So I was thinking instead about:

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* INTERESTING PEOPLE TO SUBSCRIBE TO *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧


I propose that people comment (anon or not) with some DW users they subscribe to that may be of interest-- be it for meta, book reviews, interesting observations, community-in-their-comments, etc.