Is it ever okay to "spell it out?"

Started by matt0044 July 25th, 2013 4:58 AM
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Male
Seen July 19th, 2014
Posted May 8th, 2014
205 posts
13 Years
I ask this because of how in fandoms, certain things in a show or book or any sort of story can go over people's head with certain subtleties, making them think the author was being lazy. While some may be able to get it, others wouldn't. On the flip side, spelling things out could come off as you thinking your readers are idiots that need every damn thing explained. Which isn't good.

This is an issue with me since I'm damn awful at elaborating on something like a character's inner conflict or psychological stuff. Hell, I'm praying that you're getting at least the gist of what I'm getting at with this thread.

bobandbill

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A cape
Seen 7 Hours Ago
Posted 22 Hours Ago
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15.2 Years
It depends, really, on what is being spelt out, and how. Is it important for the reader to know this, and/or does it aid in following the story? If it's plot specific then is it too-important a detail to whack a reader around the head with it, or a minor part that just won't matter if it is missed or not?

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Crystalanachrony

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New Jersey, USA
Seen January 23rd, 2023
Posted October 29th, 2013
59 posts
9.8 Years
Unfortunately, there will always be the readers/viewers who just don't get the subtle meanings in your creation, as there will also always be the readers/watchers who over analyze everything they can get their hands on. For fanfiction specifically, the great thing about working in an area where your readers can directly talk to you (a thread) is that they can ask questions, so if they don't get something, they'll probably ask about it. You can also add authors' notes at the end in spoilers, that explain the symbolism for those who can't or don't want to figure it out themselves. Because of that, it's much less necessary to hit people around the head with your symbolism, and just leave it subtle.



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