EN: In recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift in our culture towards a fan-centric environment. Alan Moore, the celebrated writer, shared his insights with us, reflecting on the evolution of fandom and its impact on society.
A decade ago, you expressed concerns about the adult crowds queuing for superhero movies, suggesting it might indicate a broader issue of emotional stagnation. How do you view fandom today?
AM: I think fandom is a crucial part of contemporary culture. Without it, our creative expressions could become stagnant. Yet, I also see that fandom can sometimes manifest as a negative force, filled with obsessive behaviors and a sense of entitlement that can harm the communities around it.
You mentioned your early experiences with fandom, particularly the initial meaning of the word “fan.” Can you elaborate on that?
AM: Absolutely. I first encountered the term as a child, witnessing a rather sad depiction of a devoted fan in a documentary. Back then, it simply referred to someone who had a strong liking for something, not necessarily the extreme associations we see today, like someone obsessively replaying a song or acting like a cult member.
What was your early involvement in comics fandom like?
AM: I became part of the comics fandom at 14 and experienced the vibrant energy of the community at the first convention I attended in 1969. It was a small, inspiring gathering where most participants were young and passionate about comics. We were actively involved in creating fanzines and supporting one another, rather than merely critiquing what was being produced.
How did your perspective on fandom change over the years?
AM: After drifting away from comics during my adolescence, I returned to find a vastly different landscape—more commercialized and larger in scale. While there were still enthusiastic fans, I noticed a troubling shift towards idolizing creators over appreciating the work itself. This led me to withdraw from the social aspects of fandom, and it became clear that our community was changing.
You’ve noted that the average age of fans has increased significantly. Why do you think that is?
AM: Yes, fandom seems to have matured, likely fueled by nostalgia. However, this older demographic often displays a sense of privilege and entitlement, which can lead to a more reactive and critical attitude rather than one of creativity and contribution. This phenomenon isn’t limited to comics; it can be seen across various fan communities.
In your view, what role does fandom play in today’s society?
AM: It’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, there are positive networks of fans supporting each other. On the other, we live in a culture influenced heavily by fan reactions, where entertainment can be in jeopardy due to outcry from fans. This toxic attitude has unfortunately spilled over into politics, where entertainment value often trumps substantive issues.
Considering these challenges, how do you think individuals can navigate their fandom more positively?
AM: Maintaining a healthy enthusiasm for something is vital, but it’s important to avoid projecting personal frustrations onto our hobbies. Enjoying something shouldn’t require a megaphone or the intensity of a crusade. At the end of the day, simply being a reader or a fan is more than enough.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Alan. Your insights definitely shine a light on the complexities of fandom in our modern world.
