GP FILE 24 Aug 98 
 SUBJECT: Natsume Atsuko 
 AT: 2:05 
 
 Natsume Atsuko wrote :

Many unexperienced writers feel the need to explain facets of a 
character we already know (canonical characters, not new characters whom 
we naturally know nothing about). This practice clutters the prose, it 
can make the reader annoyed when the material contradicts his own 
perceptions of the character, and it's often taken by experienced 
readers, such as myself, as a set-up for an OOC description.

Or maybe you just don't know what you're talking about.

1. If a fanfic takes place in an alternate universe or timeline, the characters' pasts 
will be different and therefore they're actions, abilities, and reactions will be 
different from those in the series. 

2. There are two reasons for writing descriptive prose regarding a character in one's 
fanfic:

	2a: (canon chars) The writer recognizes that not all persons reading this fanfic will 
	have seen an (entire) series and wishes to familiarize those who have not with 
	characters which may be new to them.

	2b: (noncanon chars) The writer has created a new past for characters in an alternate 
	universe or timeline and wishes to introduce this factor to the reader to eliminate 
	confusion as to why a character may be acting in a way that might be completely out of 
	character in the original timeline.
Lt. Trakal
Operative of the Galaxy Police SIU