Fan Fiction Writers | Is Job Opportunity a Motivator for RWBY Creators?
Edited By
Omar Al-Farsi
Fan fiction creators are increasingly sharing their work online, stirring conversations about the potential for landing writing jobs with CRWBY or Viz Media. A recent inquiry spurred responses from many writers about their true intentions behind crafting these stories.
Context of the Discussion
Many fan fiction writers acknowledge that while promoting their stories on forums, the hope of gaining employment in the anime industry remains a topic of mixed sentiment. Yet, some creators emphasize that the writing itself stands out as a personal passion rather than a career path.
Writers' True Motivations
Among the myriad of comments, three key themes arose:
Passion Over Profession: Most writers assert that they engage in fan fiction purely for enjoyment. One creator mentioned, "I just love to write It’s just a hobby."
Creative Expression: Many engage in fan fiction to explore untapped narratives. A writer stated, "I write because I see potential in the setting that isn’t realized in canon."
Job Aspirations: Some do express a desire for paid writing roles, but they often face skepticism. "I know of some who want a writer's job but tend to be very arrogant about it," remarked a participant, highlighting the challenges in that regard.
"I write stories I want to see written, and the only way to see them written is to write them myself." - An aspiring writer sharing their passion
Despite the enthusiasm found in fan fiction creation, there's a prevailing notion that writing fan works does not equate to a professional writing career. As one commenter bluntly noted, "Fanfics are nowhere near anything close to script/screenwriting for the actual show."
Sentiment Analysis
The responses showcased a primarily positive outlook toward writing as an enjoyable activity, with varying degrees of realism regarding the job search aspect. It's clear that while some aspire to work in the industry, their core motivation remains rooted in personal enjoyment and creative expression.
Key Observations
🔹 Most fanfic writers view their work as a hobby.
🔹 Creative exploration often serves as a major motivator.
🔹 A small number of writers pursue job opportunities within the industry, facing various obstacles.
The ongoing dialogue on forums illustrates a community united by love for RWBY, even if not all see it as a stepping stone to a professional career.
The Fork in the Road Ahead
As fan fiction continues to thrive, a significant shift may occur within the anime community. There’s a strong chance that companies like CRWBY and VIZ Media will start to pay closer attention to the creative talent emerging from these writer forums. With the rise of digital platforms for sharing stories, expert estimates suggest that around 20% of active fan fiction writers could see opportunities for mentorship or openings in professional roles in the next few years. However, the balance remains delicate; many writers may still find their passion for storytelling outweighs the pursuit of a job, leading to an enriched, albeit informal, creative community that continues to celebrate the RWBY universe without direct ties to the industry.
Parallels in Passion: The Rise of Indie Music
When looking at the passion-driven pursuits of fan fiction writers, one recalls the indie music scene in the late 90s and early 2000s. Just like fanfic, indie artists fueled their journeys through personal expression, often sharing their work on local stages and small venues. As word spread, some musicians found themselves signed to major labels, while many remained content to stay true to their roots, prioritizing their love for music over commercial success. This dynamic highlights that, much like fanfic writers, the true reward lies not just in recognition, but in the joy of creating something genuine with a likeminded community.