Redartz: Welcome, gang, to this week's discussion! A discussion originating with a comment from our pal HB in the previous post; hence the "Follow the Leader" header above to honor him for service above and beyond the call of duty!
In his comment, HB referenced theatre fans, and other types of fandom in general. And that seemed like a good place to start. As in, "what actually constitutes fandom?". What differences, and what similarities, exist between various types? In fact, what other areas of society and culture generate sufficient popularity to evolve a fandom? What other areas of fandom do you consider yourself a participant in?
I have some thoughts, but will hold them for now to let you all have your say. And HB, as our 'Leader', if you have any thoughts on the basis or direction this topic should take, by all means take the baton!
Redartz: For a "Short Cuts" question, today's offering is a pretty big subject. In your opinion, is comics fandom growing and reaching new converts? Is it just 'treading water', or is it dwindling towards extinction? My recent visit to the C2E2 convention gave me some sense that there are newer fans, younger fans, and more diverse fans, than some might think. Buuut, I could be wrong. What do you think? If the hobby is healthy, why? How might it grow even further? And if it isn't doing well, what would you suggest to remedy it? Share your thoughts and suggestions, you just might help keep comics around for the next century!
Oh, for anyone interested in some further reading: from Comicsbeat.com comes this article I stumbled across. Writer Brian Hibbs makes some interesting points about comics today. A little lengthy but well worth a look...
http://www.comicsbeat.com/titling-at-windmillls-259-what-the-hell-is-wrong-with-marvel-comics-anyway/
