When I was younger, I honestly did not have the highest opinion of fanfiction. I admit I carried this perception for a while, until at least high school. Fortunately, as I have grown older, I have come to realize that this perception is a gross generalization. Fanfiction does not deserve the reputation of being poor quality. Like all literature, it is a nuanced spectrum.

Some people will have a better understanding of writing than others, and no writing styles are going to land with everyone. For example, if I decided to write Star Wars fanfiction, that is probably going to be better appreciated by Star Wars fans than someone who does not enjoy science fiction. It is also worth noting that fanfiction has value beyond just what an audience can get out of it. I know for a fact that fanfiction is where a number of authors have gotten their start in writing. After all, why not start with something you know you already enjoy? I personally have written fanfiction for settings I enjoy, such as Warhammer 40,000 and BattleTech, because they are large enough worlds to create new stories out of.

However, there is more to fanfiction than just writing for a hobby. Fanfiction also has a lot of value for those within queer communities, for example. I have heard it mentioned that writing fanfiction can be a great way forpeople to explore their sense of identity and their sense of self. It is like a blank canvas where you can present yourself as you truly want and freely express yourself without the worry of others judgement. It may not always be something that you mesh with, but even if its quality may not be the best, it is still at least an important stepping stone towards something greater.