Original Fiction Writing
Bubble
Skill
Original Fiction Writing is a global community of writers dedicated to creating entirely new stories, sharing techniques, and supportin...Show more
Original Fiction Writing
Bubble
Skill
Original Fiction Writing is a global community of writers dedicated to creating entirely new stories, sharing techniques, and supporting one another through workshops, critique exchanges, and publication efforts. Members focus on crafting novels, novellas, and short stories that are wholly their own, rather than adaptations, fanworks, or derivative texts.
Statistics
Estimated Global Reach
1.3M
Popularity
Medium
Regional Hotspot
Worldwide
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General Q&A
The Original Fiction Writing bubble is all about inventing new stories, worlds, and characters from scratch, without relying on existing universes or franchises.
Community Q&A
The Original Fiction Writing bubble is all about inventing new stories, worlds, and characters from scratch, without relying on existing universes or franchises.
Writers gather in online forums, critique circles, beta reader partnerships, and through platforms for serialized fiction like Wattpad and Royal Road.
Community Q&A
Summary
Key Findings
Plot Ownership
Identity MarkersOriginal fiction writers fiercely value creating unique stories and see this as a core identity mark, distinguishing themselves sharply from fanfiction communities where reuse is normalized.
Critique Currency
Community DynamicsIn this bubble, giving and receiving detailed critiques is the primary social currency; trust builds through vulnerability exposed in shared drafts and revisions.
Method Factions
Polarization FactorsThe community is often divided by strong loyalties to 'plotters' vs 'pantsers', reflecting deeper philosophical contrasts about creativity versus structure in storytelling.
Narrative Jargon
Communication PatternsWriters use insider terms like 'plot bunnies' and 'query trenches' to share complex experiences succinctly, creating an immediate sense of belonging and shared struggle.
Sub Groups
Genre-Specific Writers
Groups focused on particular genres such as science fiction, fantasy, romance, or literary fiction.
Critique Circles
Small groups dedicated to exchanging feedback and improving each other's original work.
Emerging Writers
Writers new to original fiction seeking guidance, mentorship, and peer support.
Published Authors
Writers focused on publication, networking, and professional development.
Youth & Student Writers
Young writers and students participating in school clubs, university societies, or youth workshops.
Statistics and Demographics
Platform Distribution
1 / 3
Reddit
20%Reddit hosts large, active subreddits dedicated to original fiction writing, critique exchanges, and writing prompts, fostering ongoing discussion and peer support.
Niche Forums
15%Independent writing forums provide focused spaces for sharing original work, receiving critiques, and building long-term writer relationships.
Discussion Forumsonline
Workshops & Classes
15%In-person and virtual writing workshops and classes are central to skill development, critique, and community-building among original fiction writers.
Educational Settingsoffline
Gender & Age Distribution
Ideological & Social Divides
Community Development
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Insider Knowledge
Terminology
Greeting Salutations
Example Conversation
Insider
May your plot never stall!
Outsider
Huh? What do you mean by that?
Insider
It's a way of wishing you creative momentum — hoping your story keeps moving forward smoothly without writer’s block.
Outsider
Oh, that’s a nice wish! I hadn’t heard that before.
Insider
Yeah, it’s a little writing community tradition to support each other’s storytelling journey.
Cultural Context
This asymmetric greeting embodies the shared struggle and encouragement writers give each other to maintain flow in their stories and enjoy unexpected developments.
Inside Jokes
"I’ve got 99 problems but a plot bunny ain’t one."
This is a playful twist on a popular song lyric humorously acknowledging that writers often deal with many issues, but the irresistible urge to chase new story ideas ('plot bunnies') is just another beloved challenge.
Facts & Sayings
„Plot bunny“
A spontaneous, often persistent idea for a story or plot thread that a writer cannot stop thinking about and wants to develop.
„First draft blues“
The feeling of frustration, self-doubt, or exhaustion that commonly occurs during or after completing a first draft of a story.
„Pantser vs. Plotter“
A shorthand for two opposing writing approaches: 'pantsers' write by the seat of their pants without a detailed plan, while 'plotters' outline their story carefully before writing.
„Query trenches“
The challenging and often lengthy process of submitting a manuscript's query letters to literary agents or publishers and dealing with rejection or silence.
„Show, don't tell“
A common piece of craft advice urging writers to convey emotions and information through action, dialogue, and sensory detail rather than straightforward exposition.
Unwritten Rules
Don't dismiss 'plot bunnies' as distractions.
Chasing new ideas can generate fresh motivation and often leads to unique projects; ignoring them outright may stifle creativity.
Give constructive feedback kindly in critique circles.
Respectful, balanced critiques maintain trust and encourage growth without discouraging fellow writers.
Avoid unsolicited critique on public postings without consent.
Unrequested criticism is often seen as rude or intrusive; writers value control over when and how they receive feedback.
Respect varying writing processes (plotters vs. pantsers).
Insisting one method is superior can alienate others; diversity in approach is accepted as normal.
Fictional Portraits
1 / 3
Grace, 28
Content EditorfemaleGrace has been dabbling in original fiction writing since college and is now actively trying to publish her first novel while balancing a full-time editorial job.
AuthenticityResilienceConstructive criticism
Motivations
- To improve her storytelling skills through critique and feedback
- To build a professional writing network for future publishing opportunities
- To find motivation and accountability through peer support
Challenges
- Finding enough time to write consistently amid work and life obligations
- Overcoming self-doubt about originality and voice
- Navigating publishing options and rejection
Platforms
Online writing forumsDiscord critique groupsLocal writing meetups
beta readersshow vs tellplot arcs
Insights & Background
Historical Timeline
Main Subjects
1 / 3
People
Brandon Sanderson
Best-selling fantasy author whose ‘Lecture Series’ on creative writing is widely used in workshops and classrooms.↗
Craft GuruFantasy MentorLecture Series
Stephen King
Prolific novelist and essayist; his book ‘On Writing’ is a seminal craft guide for prose fiction writers.↗
Craft CoachMemoir-GuideHorror Icon
Ursula K. Le Guin
Renowned for genre-bending fiction and insightful essays on writing and worldbuilding.↗
WorldbuilderLiterary IconSpeculative Sage
Neil Gaiman
Popular author whose workshops and social-media engagement inspire originality and genre cross-pollination.
Genre BlenderStoryboard WizardDigital Mentor
Mary Robinette Kowal
Science-fiction writer and podcast host known for clear, community-focused craft advice.
Community ChampionPodcast HostSF Mentor
James Scott Bell
Thriller author and writing coach; his ‘Plot & Structure’ framework is widely taught.
Plot MasterThriller CoachFramework Creator
Chuck Wendig
Prolific novelist and blogger offering candid, unorthodox writing prompts and critique encouragement.
Prompt MeisterUnfiltered CoachIndie Advocate
1 / 3
First Steps & Resources
Get-Started Steps
Time to basics: 3-6 weeks
1
Read Contemporary Original Fiction
1-2 weeksBasic
Summary: Immerse yourself in recent original fiction to understand current styles, themes, and expectations.
Details: Begin by reading a variety of contemporary original fiction—short stories, novellas, and novels—published in the last decade. This helps you internalize the standards, narrative techniques, and thematic concerns valued by today’s writing community. Focus on works in genres you enjoy or wish to write in, but also sample outside your comfort zone. Take notes on what resonates: voice, structure, pacing, and character development. Common beginner challenges include reading passively or only revisiting childhood favorites; instead, read actively and analytically. Try annotating or journaling your reactions. This step is crucial for developing a writer’s eye and understanding the landscape you’ll be contributing to. Progress can be measured by your ability to articulate what you admire (or dislike) in a story and why.
2
Join a Writers’ Community
1-3 daysBasic
Summary: Register with an online or local group focused on original fiction for support and accountability.
Details: Find and join a community dedicated to original fiction writing. This could be an online forum, a Discord server, or a local writers’ group. Look for spaces that emphasize original work, critique exchanges, and mutual support. Introduce yourself, read community guidelines, and observe how members interact. Don’t rush to post your own work—spend time engaging with others’ discussions and critiques. Beginners often hesitate to join or feel intimidated; remember, most communities welcome newcomers and value fresh perspectives. This step is vital for feedback, motivation, and learning unwritten norms. Evaluate your progress by your comfort in participating and understanding community etiquette.
3
Complete a Short Writing Prompt
2-4 hoursIntermediate
Summary: Write an original short story (500-1000 words) based on a prompt to practice generating new ideas.
Details: Select a writing prompt from a reputable source and write a complete, original short story (500-1000 words). Prompts help overcome blank-page anxiety and encourage creative risk-taking. Focus on finishing the piece, not perfection. Many beginners stall by over-editing or doubting their ideas—set a timer and commit to finishing. Afterward, reflect on what was challenging: starting, sustaining momentum, or ending the story. This exercise builds confidence and demonstrates that you can create something from nothing. Progress is measured by completion and your willingness to share the draft, even if only with yourself.
1
Read Contemporary Original Fiction
1-2 weeksBasic
Summary: Immerse yourself in recent original fiction to understand current styles, themes, and expectations.
Details: Begin by reading a variety of contemporary original fiction—short stories, novellas, and novels—published in the last decade. This helps you internalize the standards, narrative techniques, and thematic concerns valued by today’s writing community. Focus on works in genres you enjoy or wish to write in, but also sample outside your comfort zone. Take notes on what resonates: voice, structure, pacing, and character development. Common beginner challenges include reading passively or only revisiting childhood favorites; instead, read actively and analytically. Try annotating or journaling your reactions. This step is crucial for developing a writer’s eye and understanding the landscape you’ll be contributing to. Progress can be measured by your ability to articulate what you admire (or dislike) in a story and why.
2
Join a Writers’ Community
1-3 daysBasic
Summary: Register with an online or local group focused on original fiction for support and accountability.
Details: Find and join a community dedicated to original fiction writing. This could be an online forum, a Discord server, or a local writers’ group. Look for spaces that emphasize original work, critique exchanges, and mutual support. Introduce yourself, read community guidelines, and observe how members interact. Don’t rush to post your own work—spend time engaging with others’ discussions and critiques. Beginners often hesitate to join or feel intimidated; remember, most communities welcome newcomers and value fresh perspectives. This step is vital for feedback, motivation, and learning unwritten norms. Evaluate your progress by your comfort in participating and understanding community etiquette.
3
Complete a Short Writing Prompt
2-4 hoursIntermediate
Summary: Write an original short story (500-1000 words) based on a prompt to practice generating new ideas.
Details: Select a writing prompt from a reputable source and write a complete, original short story (500-1000 words). Prompts help overcome blank-page anxiety and encourage creative risk-taking. Focus on finishing the piece, not perfection. Many beginners stall by over-editing or doubting their ideas—set a timer and commit to finishing. Afterward, reflect on what was challenging: starting, sustaining momentum, or ending the story. This exercise builds confidence and demonstrates that you can create something from nothing. Progress is measured by completion and your willingness to share the draft, even if only with yourself.
4
Exchange Critique with Peers
1-2 daysIntermediate
Summary: Share your story for feedback and provide thoughtful critiques on others’ original fiction.
Details: Post your short story in your chosen community’s critique section, following their guidelines. Read and thoughtfully critique at least two other members’ stories, focusing on strengths and areas for improvement. Giving feedback is as important as receiving it; it sharpens your analytical skills and builds goodwill. Beginners often fear criticism or struggle to offer constructive comments—use frameworks like 'what worked, what confused me, what I’d like to see more of.' This step is essential for growth and integrating into the community. Progress is evident when you can accept feedback without defensiveness and provide actionable, respectful critiques.
5
Set a Regular Writing Habit
2-4 weeksIntermediate
Summary: Establish a consistent schedule (e.g., 20 minutes daily) to draft new original fiction and track your progress.
Details: Commit to a manageable, regular writing routine—such as 20 minutes a day or three sessions per week. Use this time to draft new stories, expand on prompts, or revise previous work. Track your sessions in a journal or spreadsheet. Beginners often set unrealistic goals or skip sessions after early enthusiasm fades; start small and prioritize consistency over volume. Experiment with different times of day and environments to find what works best. This habit is foundational for skill development and productivity. Evaluate progress by your ability to maintain the routine for several weeks and by the accumulation of new writing.
Welcoming Practices
„Welcome threads in forums where newcomers introduce themselves and share their favorite story ideas.“
These threads create a supportive space for writers to connect, establish presence, and find early feedback or writing partners.
„Offering beta read swaps to help new writers get feedback in exchange for reviewing other works.“
This reciprocal practice builds trust and skill-sharing while integrating newcomers into the community network.
Beginner Mistakes
Submitting a query letter without researching agents' preferences.
Spend time tailoring each query to specific agents to improve response chances.
Ignoring the importance of editing and revision cycles after the first draft.
Embrace rewriting as essential; rushing to publish without revision often harms story quality and reception.
Facts
Regional Differences
North America
NaNoWriMo is hugely popular in North America and drives massive community participation in original fiction writing challenges.
Europe
There is often greater emphasis on literary fiction and experimental writing styles within European original fiction communities compared to the dominance of genre fiction in other regions.
Asia
Emerging online platforms tailored to Asian languages foster serialized original fiction, blending traditional storytelling with modern digital culture.
Misconceptions
Misconception #1
All original fiction writers are aspiring novelists planning to publish internationally.
Reality
Many writers create original stories purely for personal enjoyment, practice, or sharing in niche communities without seeking traditional publication.
Misconception #2
Original fiction writing is easier than fanfiction because you don’t have to follow existing canon rules.
Reality
Creating a wholly original world, characters, and plot involves complex worldbuilding and storytelling challenges that require different but equally demanding skills.
Misconception #3
If you’re an original fiction writer, you don’t need feedback until your manuscript is perfect.
Reality
Constructive critique, beta reading, and early feedback are crucial for growth and often encouraged to refine stories well before final drafts.
Clothing & Styles
Author hoodies or literary-themed t-shirts
Worn casually by writers to reflect their identity and passion for writing, often featuring witty writing jokes or quotes that signal insider status.
