Are we embracing diversity or dissention?

[elyxer]

It seems that writing fics according to Canon standards is a big thing to some people. While it is quite acceptable and even encouraged to create alternate universes and realities to place Brian and Justin into, the slightest deviation from their television show personas is completely frowned upon. First, I just want to say that I consider myself just as much a fan of the show, the characters, and the actors as anyone else. In no way will I ever try to belittle the work they did or the show they created. I do find it fascinating that so many people seem to find fault or something to bitch about in fics where Brian and Justin don’t act or react exactly as they would on the show.

I think if you compare season five Brian to season one Brian, you’d find that season five Brian was OOC. So, if he can change that much in five years, who is to say how much he’d change in five more? I realize that this is a matter of personal opinion and perception, but I find it quite disturbing that authors as well as their fics are being attacked and made the brunt of jokes because of what they write. I mean it’s horrible to think of Justin getting bashed in the head on a fictional show, but it’s perfectly acceptable to bash RL people with hurtful words.

I am a firm believer that everyone is entitled to their opinion, however, I do have a problem with people saying things that can only be considered hurtful. A critique is one thing; however, a public bashing is an altogether different story. There are plenty of stories that I don’t like, so I just don’t read them. You will never find a post made by me where I am ridiculing an author or that person’s work for any reason. I think it’s in poor taste.

I thought this fandom was not only about Brian and Justin’s relationship, but about diversity and acceptance. Diversity offers opportunities to learn and celebrate new and different ideas. If there are people in this fandom that can’t seem to overcome certain prejudices, how can we ever expect society to change in any shape, form, or fashion? Personally, I love reading things that are different. I enjoy the opportunity to learn something from someone else’s point of view. I even enjoy debating the differences. I just find myself wondering why some people feel they must be malicious to seem witty, or find enjoyment in the pain of others. This isn’t a schoolyard, and we are supposed to be intelligent adults.

Well, that’s all I have to say. Thanks for your time.

Comments

[elyxer.livejournal.com]

Very well said! Thank you for your opinion. It is nice to see that I'm not alone.