Fanfic Cliches...

[Superstar*]

What are they? For Buffy in general, and for W/T in particular? I ask because, I have a mind to try writing some fanfic. I am pretty sure some of my ideas are quite unconventional, but there are others that probably everyone and their Uncle's dog has taken a shot at. What happened after the candle got blown out in NMR, for example. Or, more recently, W&T get back together after the breakup (though I have a feeling most members here will never get tired of that

So, if and when I finally undertake this writing adventure, which trite and overused ideas should I avoid?

*reposted by WillTara

[BBOvenGuy*]

Don't worry about what's been done before. Even if your story covers a subject that has been done before, your version of it is unique. Write what's on your mind and in your gut. Be true to your own vision, and you'll do just fine.

*reposted by WillTara

[Rane*]

well, certainly do the research. go to extra falmey, wiccan ways and the pens board and read the fic summaries. every angle imaginable has pretty much been written, but that doens't mean you cannot be original. each story is different, each writer is different. good luck.

*reposted by WillTara

[tommo]

You know what? It doesn't really matter what you write; because someone will have thought of something like it, or written something like it, or at least know of something like it. There's no truly original idea, because we're all influenced by so many genres and other forms of entertainment.

The best thing I can suggest (and hey, what the frilly heck do I know?) is for you to write about something you know well. Whether it's a place, or an emotion, or a character (Willow and Tara being perfect examples)...as long as your heart's in the writing then you'll be fine and people will love it.

The Pens board is probably the best place to debut your fic anyway, as people here are among the most supportive and constructive you could wish to find.

And if you want beta readers for you fic, there's a lengthy list right here.

Hope that helps.

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"Bitter, party of one. Bitter, party of one." she muttered... ~ Four Months After by Capt. Murdock