The Power Of Fandom | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Entertainment

The Power Of Fandom

Except when it emotionally destroys you.

288
The Power Of Fandom

As I write this article, I have one of my favorite episodes of "Doctor Who" playing in the background (Boom Town, if anyone's wondering). This marvelous British TV show was not my first foray into intense fandom, and I doubt that it will be my last. Sherlock, Harry Potter, Nerdfighteria. Fandom is an intense, varied thing. But, it is not all composed of screaming young people (mainly those of us with two X chromosomes) who devour any and all morsels that we can get.

Fandom is powerful. It is comforting. It is not just something for crazed fans. Fandom actually does a lot of important things.

1. Gives people a sense of belonging

Fandom makes people feel like they belong in the world. It helps connect people through conventions, the Internet, and through other sources. I actually made my first college friend via fandoms because we both geeked out over the same Internet things. It gives you something to do, whether it's watching videos on YouTube, trading theories with friends, or just reading fan fiction. People are able to see themselves in characters.

2. Tackles important issues

Fandoms tackle important issues. Whether it's through direct discussion or metaphor, issues of the day are shown in fandom. Whether it's the Vlogbrothers discussing important events and decreasing world suck, Harry Potter tackling racism, or Jane Austen tackling class issues (which still resonate to this day), fandom helps you think about what's going on. Fandom is not going to just make you flip out over your OTP; it makes you think.

3. Gives you someone to look up to

One of the reasons certain pieces of entertainment garner such huge followings is because people can connect with them. Who didn't want to be Hermione Granger or Minerva McGonagall? The Doctor teaches you how to be adventurous and creative, yet demonstrates how flawed people can still be good. Let's be real: what Jane Austen fangirl didn't want to be Lizzy or Jane Bennet once upon a time? I still do.

4. Takes you other places

Just about every episode of Doctor Who does this. Even episodes that are just inside the TARDIS are an adventure (it's bigger on the inside!) Getting lost inside a book or video allows you to travel to other worlds. Just watch a Thoughts from Places video!

5. Gives you hope

Fandom provides hope. For only a little bit, it helps you forget about any stresses and troubles in your life. Plus your favorite characters screw up. A lot. Like a lot a lot. Or act downright stupid.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Entertainment

15 Times "Parks and Recreation" Summed Up Your Library Experience

"I've only slept nine hours over the past four days, so I'm right on the verge of a nervous breakdown." - Leslie Knope

1279
Parks and Recreation excitedly gathered around a laptop at a table in an office setting.

The library. Club lib. The place every college student goes when they want to try and be a productive member of society. Who better to explain your experience than Parks and Rec?

1. When you've finally found the energy to leave your dorm room and walk into the lib like

Keep Reading...Show less
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

27163
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

11436
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments