The Unconventional Realm of Outsider Literature

Delving into the world of literature, particularly self-published works, one often encounters a fascinating realm reminiscent of outsider art. These pieces can be considered as 'outsider literature'—work that defies conventional norms and conventions, often rooted in unique, self-imposed standards rather than mainstream expectations.

Defining Outsider Literature

As a concept, outsider literature can be likened to outsider art, where individuals create art without formal training or recognition. In writing, this manifests in work that doesn't adhere to the prevailing norms and conventions of mainstream literature. This includes self-published fiction, online writings, and fanfiction that breaks away from common tropes.

The Case of Self-Published Writing

Self-published literature, especially self-published stuff that doesn't follow mainstream conventions, can certainly be considered as 'outsider art'. This is not limited to books, but also extends to web-published novels and fanfiction.

Exploring Fanfiction and Beyond

Take, for example, the fanfiction I wrote as a kid. My work started out of a desire to write stories involving characters I enjoyed, much like creating a narrative where real-world characters shapeshift into fictional characters. My stories were not just a simple plot of love triangles or character interactions. Instead, they involved a self-insert character shifting identities, which was somewhat inspired by the popular book series Animorphs.

Unique Perspectives and Conventions

My character was not a stereotypical Mary Sue, despite leading most of the action. The stories didn't follow the general tone of the original work, and the character's actions were driven by her role in the narrative rather than any sense of her inherent specialness or exceptional qualities. She would impersonate other characters, rather than being born with extraordinary abilities. This unique portrayal of the Mary Sue trope can be viewed as a blend of innovation and adherence to outsider principles.

Political Overtones and Unconventional Themes

Another aspect of my early writing was its political undertones, which are notably different from typical fanfiction. In the stories, adventures took a backseat to characters complaining about the school system or the government. This focus on political issues, while unconventional, added a layer of depth and relevance to the narrative.

Transformation and Identity

A significant theme in my works was transformation. Human-to-human transformations were a recurring element, which is rare even in fanfiction. These transformations were often seen as a means for characters to assume new roles or identities, leading to a complex interplay of power and identity.

Female-to-Male Transformations

One particular aspect of this transformative theme was the inclusion of female-to-male transformations, which are virtually unseen outside of adult content. These narratives were written without the benefit of knowledge about such genres, and any graphic descriptions were deliberately avoided.

Challenges and Evolution

The process of creating these unconventional stories was challenging, as I had to navigate a landscape devoid of common tropes. However, the result was inevitably influenced by my experiences and the works I was exposed to during my youth. This lack of adherence to conventional forms, combined with the unique themes and characters, places these works in a gray area between outsider art and mainstream literature.

The Significance of Unconventional Narratives

While the term 'outsider art' is often applied to artistic movements that operate outside the mainstream art world, the concept can be extended to literature. These unconventional narratives not only challenge traditional norms but also provide a platform for fresh, innovative storytelling. As the world of publishing continues to evolve, the idea of outsider literature becomes increasingly relevant, highlighting the importance of breaking free from convention in the pursuit of creative expression.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while some literature in the form of self-published or niche online written works can be considered outsider literature, it is crucial to recognize the extent to which these works are influenced by broader literary trends. True outsider literature is characterized by a complete disregard for conventional norms, a level of independence from mainstream influences, and a unique perspective that sets it apart.