Commitments.

I guess that's a misleading title... it's not about what you think!


I've been trying my hardest to get back in to fanfiction recently. I've started up a new story and I really do like it, it's much better formed than my previous ones I think. The worst part is, I hardly have time to write.

My main priority should be writing my own book, the one that might one day get me famous! But most of the time it's so difficult to just get out one paragraph let alone another chapter. This is where fanfiction comes in. A lot of blank spaces have already been filled out for you, such as the characters, places and plot ideas. You know who the good guys and the bad guys are and what they aim to do - in Harry Potter (my choice of fanfiction) they aim to kill Voldemort. A very good back up plot if mine slows down some!

When I write fanfiction, it gives me a breather from writer's block with my own story. Sometimes, it'll even give me inspiration to write my own again. However, it isn't all sunshine and rainbows. Although I have a responsibility to finish my own story, when you write fanfiction, especially good fanfiction, you have another responsibility. Your reviewers.

I'm lucky enough to have some loyal readers who review every chapter, they always have good words or helpful advice, which I adore. They make me feel really good about my writing, which not everyone has. The one-time reviewer is just as valued, as they make me feel that people who just stumble upon my story love it too and they want a reason to come back and read it.

With such a busy and tiring schedule as mine, there isn't a lot of free time to write up new chapters. On nights when I don't see my boyfriend, I'd rather laze in bed relaxing and watching a film after a tough day at work than slave away at the computer. Don't get me wrong, I love writing, but my head would rather not have the extra work.

Sometimes it can be a two weeks or more before I update my story, and some reviewers really want to read the next chapter. I don't want to put anyone off by being slack, I want to be a reliable writer. So here it is. When you write fanfiction; beware. You will begin to feel an overwhelming commitment to your reviewers. Everyone likes to feel special, and these lovely people make me feel that way. For someone who's passion is writing, to have multiple people tell you it's amazing and they want more, you feel the obligation to provide.

I know it might seem selfish in parts, I write to get positive feedback, but it's not just that. I write for people to enjoy. That's what a writer's goal is, isn't it? To entertain. I may just have to invest in a netbook so I can write wherever I go! That's when I'm not stuck on £2.60 an hour...

Another reason is, if these people love my fanfiction, maybe I can build up a loyal fanbase for when I get my own literature published ;) haha, a girl can dream!