But I digress. Many folks, when they hear the word “fan” in relation to books or media, think of the ubiquitous Trekkie. Whether or not you agree with their obsession, let’s pause for a moment and simply admire their steadfastness. I found a picture of the cover of a fanzine from October, 1977! For those of you paying attention, that’s eight and a half YEARS after it went off the air! (Star Trek aired on NBC September 8, 1966, through June 3, 1969.)
I, for one, would love to have that kind of traction for the creative material I create. If it weren’t for the fans, we wouldn’t have such shows because no one would watch them. I’ve been a fan of many things over the years and know the lengths to which I would go to follow my passion, and I’m not nearly as passionate as some fans I know. I recall reading an article in a writing magazine about a knitting designer who wrote a book. Over 300 fans showed up at her book signing because they’re bonzo for knitting! The publisher was ecstatic, the bookstore was ecstatic, and everyone was confused – who knew knitting was such a hot topic? Knitters. Fans. Duh.
Some fans, of course, go a little too far.
Or what about this poor pup?
On the other hand, if it’s consensual, is it really “bad”? This is a long and contentious debate, but I will say that if the dog doesn’t bite you, then you’re probably okay.
So if you’re a fan, be proud. You have a long lineage to be proud of. From sports to politics to entertainers and more, there have always been folks gaga over their passions. Let’s hope there’s always fans, because without them, we wouldn’t be able to tell all the cool stories we want to.
GO CUBBIES!
Resources
The Internet Movie Database, “Star Trek,” http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0060028/
4 comments:
What you wrote is so true. I hope we get rabid fans like the Cubs and Star Trek...perhaps without the tattoos.
as a fellow Chicagoan I agree that this is a "Fan" tastic town. I also think that romance readers sometimes get to Star Trek passion in their fandom. I think this is a great trait in a person, for what are we if we don't have passion for something? Thanks for the article .. it was fun to read!
You know, I looked at that tattoo, and all I could think of was that defining Spock moment from ST:TOS: "PAAAAAAAAAINNNN!" ;-)
But I can really understand why fandoms of all stripes are big in Chicago. In the winter, you need all that passion to keep you warm.
Thanks, ladies!
I know what you mean, Rachel. Maybe we'll post tattoo designs for our characters and someone will get one someday... o.O...
That's a good point, Debbie, about passion for things. I'm glad you enjoyed!
Yes, Jean Marie, I agree - some tattoos I've seen make me think, "Ouch!" And good point about the Winter. I think that's one reason I had so much fun learning to knit and keep it up in the Winter. :)
Post a Comment