A Linguistic Examination of User-Generated Content: Language Use in Fanfiction Communities

Abstract

ABSTRACT

This study conducts a linguistic examination of user-generated content within fanfiction communities, focusing on how language reflects the identities and interpersonal relationships of participants. Utilizing a sociolinguistic framework, the research analyzes a diverse corpus of fanfiction texts to uncover lexical and syntactic patterns that signify communal ties and individual expressions. The findings reveal that fanfiction writers strategically employ language to negotiate their social presence, with specific terminology and stylistic choices serving as markers of identity. This investigation highlights the multimodal nature of fanfiction, where text interacts with images and community norms, enhancing the understanding of digital communication in contemporary fandoms. By exploring the linguistic practices within these communities, the study contributes to broader discussions about identity construction, social dynamics, and the evolving landscape of digital storytelling. The implications extend to understanding similar dynamics in other user-generated content spaces, suggesting avenues for future research in digital linguistics and community studies.

Keywords: fanfiction, linguistics, identity, sociolinguistics, digital communication, user-generated content, community, language patterns.