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Indian Express
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Beyond the canon: How fanfiction became an LGBTQ+ sanctuary
What if Harry Potter fell for Draco Malfoy? What if Sherlock chose Watson over solving cases? What if Elizabeth Bennet married Darcy, but her heart always belonged to Charlotte? These are not just wishful rewrites, they're part of a sprawling literary movement. Fanfiction, long dismissed as juvenile, has become one of the most emotionally honest and radical spaces on the internet. For many LGBTQ+ readers and writers, it is not a hobby. It is survival. Written by fans using characters and worlds from existing books, films or shows, fanfiction reimagines the official versions, often centring voices left out of it. For many LGBTQ+ readers and writers, it is a radical act. A way to exist on the page when the canon never lets them in. Even Daniel Radcliffe has confessed to reading Drarry fanfics- yes, Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy as star-crossed lovers. If that seems subversive, you are only scratching the surface. 'I don't think it's a good way to train to be a professional writer when you're borrowing everybody else's world and characters.' That is the take of George RR Martin, author of bestselling fantasy series, A Song of Ice and Fire, on fanfictions. One of many traditional writers who've dismissed them as unoriginal or even unethical. But fanfiction writers see it differently. For them, it is a way of expression. For decades, fanfiction has been rejected as childish, as derivative, as not real writing. But ask anyone who's cried over a 100k words slow burn between two characters who never kissed on screen, it feels more real than most things. These stories live and breathe on platforms like Wattpad, AO3, Tumblr and vast online archives where millions of users rewrite the rules of storytelling. At its core, it is a radical act. It flips authorship on its head. Instead of revering the official version, it challenges it. These questions are not just playful hypotheticals, they're creative uprisings. It gives readers the pen. Especially those readers who are traditionally excluded from mainstream narratives- LGBTQ+ writers, women, people of colour, the neurodivergent. For them, fanfiction is a way of reclamation, a way to become the main character. While mainstream literature has now expanded its LGBTQ+ offerings- Call Me By Your Name, Red, White & Royal Blue, They Both Die at the End– fanfiction was already there, years ahead, giving readers what they weren't finding in bookstores. Even as mainstream publishing treaded cautiously, offering one LGBTQ+ story for every dozen straight romances, fanfiction platforms were overflowing with these narratives in every shape and form. It wasn't about market trends or visibility, it was about survival, expression and imagining love without societal norms. Though it has had a quieter presence, fanfiction is gaining steady ground among Indian youth particularly closeted and questioning teens and twenty somethings. A growing community of desi writers imagining worlds far more inclusive than the one they live in. Even though Section 377 was struck down in 2018, LGBTQ+ in India still hides in shadows. But online, through fanfictions and forums, it can exist in usernames, in tags, in alternate endings. Even as court deny the right to marry, these stories dare to imagine queer futures not bound by law, but by love. Fanfiction in India remains personal. Often anonymous. But it's where youth are telling their truth. Unfiltered and uncensored. In heteronormative Indian media that still clings to heterosexual couples, fanfiction lets LGBTQ+ voices write their own stories. Fanfiction is about being honest, in ways mainstream spaces still struggle to allow. It is emotional. Vulnerable. Utterly sincere. And for LGBTQ+ writers and readers, that sincerity can be radical. As author of Eleanor & Park, Rainbow Rowell said, 'The whole point of fanfiction is that you get to play inside somebody else's universe. Rewrite the rules. Or bend them. The story doesn't have to end. You can stay in this world, this world you love, as long as you want, as long as you keep thinking of new stories.' Fanfiction dares to imagine what love could look like. What identity might feel like if it weren't policed. It does not ask to be taken seriously. It just asks to be felt. To some, it might seem cheesy, full of tropes and happy endings. But that's the point. And for a generation of LGBTQ+ youth raised in a world that told them they were too much or not enough, fanfiction's more than literature. It's home. (The writer is an intern with
Time of India
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Books to read in 2025: From fantasy to thriller, fiction genres you should explore this year
If you've ever found yourself reading the same type of book over and over, you're not alone. It's easy to fall into a reading rut, gravitating toward familiar authors or genres that feel like comfort food. But books are meant to be doors, not boxes. This year, why not twist that doorknob and peek into something new? Different genres offer different experiences; some take you on magical quests, others pull you into high-stakes mysteries, or quiet emotional landscapes. Here's a walk-through of some fiction genres that might surprise you, move you, or keep you turning pages well past bedtime. Fantasy: For the dreamers and the detail-lovers Fantasy isn't just about dragons and wizards; it's about building entire worlds. Whether it's the A Song of Ice and Fire or the lyrical beauty of The Name of the Wind , fantasy invites you to live somewhere else entirely for a while. Magic systems, strange creatures, and epic destinies await. If you've never explored this genre, start with something like Stardust by Neil Gaiman or The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune. Thriller: For the ones who crave adrenaline Thrillers are for those who enjoy tension. They make your heart race and your mind spin. The best thrillers don't just rely on action, they build suspense by keeping you unsure of who to trust. If you liked Gone Girl or The Girl on the Train , there's a whole world of nail-biting reads out there. Try Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris or The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides for an intense ride. Historical fiction : For time travelers without a machine This genre is perfect if you love stories grounded in real-world events but with a human lens. Historical fiction brings the past to life sometimes through war, sometimes through quiet family dramas. Books like The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah or Pachinko by Min Jin Lee do more than just teach you history; they help you feel it. It's a genre that blends emotion and education in a way few others can. Science fiction : For the curious and the big thinkers Sci-fi isn't just for tech geeks; it's for anyone interested in what's possible. Whether it's exploring artificial intelligence, colonizing other planets, or imagining alternate timelines, sci-fi is about asking 'What if?' You can go hard and heady with authors like Isaac Asimov or more contemporary with Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. It's a genre that stretches your imagination and sometimes your beliefs. Contemporary fiction : For real-life stories with heart If you want something rooted in everyday reality, contemporary fiction is a genre that often gets overlooked but delivers powerful emotional payoffs. These books reflect the world we live in, relationships, identity, mental health, loss, and love. Think Normal People by Sally Rooney or Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng. It's like eavesdropping on lives that feel strikingly real. Magical realism: For those who want wonder in the ordinary This genre blends the everyday with the mystical, where magic quietly lives within the mundane. Think of books like Like Water for Chocolate or The Ocean at the End of the Lane . Magical realism isn't flashy, it's emotional, often poetic, and deeply human. You don't need to suspend disbelief; you just need to be open to wonder. Literary fiction: For the lovers of language and nuance Literary fiction focuses less on plot and more on characters, writing style, and emotional depth. It's the genre that asks you to slow down and notice. Books in this category may not always be easy, but they stay with you. Try A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara or The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt. Expect to be moved, challenged, and maybe even changed. This year, make your bookshelf a little more adventurous. Step out of your usual reading comfort zone. A good book in a new genre can do more than entertain; it can shift how you see the world. Whether you want escape, thrill, tears, or questions, there's a genre that's waiting to surprise you. So go on take a chance. Your next favorite book might be one you'd never have picked before.
India Today
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
A Song of Ice and Fire: Pant's bravado meets Rahul's composure in Leeds masterclass
Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul put on a batting masterclass on Day 4 of the first Test against England at Headingley, Leeds, as their massive partnership brought India into a dominating position. A 195-run stand for the fourth wicket saw the two extreme ends of a spectrum come together to forge a union at the crease, which both challenged and adhered to the norms of Test one end, there was a calm, composed, cool-as-ice KL Rahul, batting with the responsibility of being the team's most senior batter, who had to rise to the occasion and bail the team out of trouble. At the other end, there was a fiery Rishabh Pant, whose batting defies the set standards of Test cricket and leaves fans on the edge of their seats with his fun duo symbolised the title of George RR Martin's famous book A Song of Ice and Fire, which has been adapted into the TV series Game of Thrones. Much like the plot of the story, Pant and Rahul set out to conquer Headingley to help the new king of Indian Test cricket, Shubman Gill, begin his reign with a victory. The two of the best 'kingsguards' used the most treasured weapons in their armoury to take down England, putting on a special show for the connoisseurs of the game. While Pant began in his usual fashion by dancing down the track on just his second delivery, Rahul almost paid a tribute to the textbook of the game with his measured approach.A contrasting style of batting on displayadvertisementThe opener refrained from playing any flashy drives outside the off-stump line and brilliantly hid his bat behind his pads on a number of occasions to not give in to the temptation of feeling for the deliveries on fourth and fifth stump.- !Take a bow, @RishabhPant17, brilliant would be an understatement! #ENGvIND 1st Test Day 4 LIVE NOW Streaming on JioHotstar Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 23, 2025However, at the other end, a complete contrast innings was being played by the most audacious warrior of cricket's Westeros, who was even ready to kill a Whitewalker without having 'dragon glass' or 'valyrian steel'.Pant was all over the place at the start of the innings, trying some of the most mind-boggling shots known to mankind as his top edge flew over the keeper's head for a boundary. As different as the two warriors may be, they used their complexities to take down the enemy and emerged as the 'protectors of the realm.'Rahul's knock had Vale's impregnable defence along with patience to bat through hostile spells and some of the most aesthetically pleasing drives. The opener sent a sense of calm in the dressing room, batting with authority at the crease, having sworn allegiance in the name of his 'one true king'.advertisementOn the other hand, Pant was unflinching in his approach despite surviving some close calls early in the innings and took down both pacers and spinners alike, to ensure that the kingdom didn't fall in the face of the strongest rebellion by the England their partnership developed, the fans witnessed a 'Song of Ice and Fire' unfold before their eyes as Pant's fury, coupled with Rahul's defiance, led the charge for India. In no time, the two warriors brought Shubman Gill's men into ascendancy in the battle of off each other's strengthsRahul and Pant complemented each other well, feeding off each other's strengths. While Pant began his innings in the most berserk manner possible, he had to show restraint like Rahul during the first session with England seamers on top of their Rahul also brought out some extravagant shots after being circumspect early on, with the team looking to extend their lead. Hence, the duo stood like Rangers of the Night's Watch to guard the Indian empire against the strongest winds of winter and later unleashed their fury like ferocious dragons of the Targarayen missing out in the first innings, @klrahul makes it count in the second! A priceless century that puts #TeamIndia in a commanding position in the 1st Test! #ENGvIND 1st Test Day 4 LIVE NOW Streaming on JioHotstar Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 23, 2025advertisementRahul's calm demeanour and Pant's bravado even earned plaudits from former India cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara, who was left in awe of their camaraderie and the perfect plan to play out different phases of the innings.'In the first session, both Rishabh and KL had to work hard. The England seamers were bowling really well—especially Brydon Carse, who bowled a very good spell from the pavilion end. Ben Stokes and the rest of the bowlers also maintained great pressure. So Rishabh and KL had to wait patiently for their opportunity,' said Cheteshwar Pujara on Sony further highlighted that it wasn't possible to keep Pant quiet for long, but hailed the India wicketkeeper for timing his aggression.'I knew that with Rishabh, you can't keep him quiet for too long. He had to take on the bowlers at some point. But credit to him—he waited for the right moment. KL, as always, showed his trademark patience. And today, Rishabh matched that temperament, waited for his turn, and then capitalised beautifully when the time was right,' he two of the fiercest warriors of Westeros have brought King Shubman on the verge of winning his first battle. The duo combined butchery with precise defence to register one of the most memorable partnerships in the history of Indian a long series ahead and possibly eight more innings remaining in the tour, Pant and Rahul's job is far from done as they will look to script more game-changing unions at the crease to protect the realm from upcoming dangers and begin King Shubman's era by conquering England.- EndsMust Watch
Time of India
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Game of Thrones: War for Westeros revealed at Summer Game Fest 2025 – release date, gameplay & more
Game of Thrones: War for Westeros | Credit: YouTube Game of Thrones: War for Westeros - Have you ever wished you could rewrite the story of Westeros? Maybe stop Ned Stark from dying, keep Daenerys from burning King's Landing, or finally make House Stark rule the Seven Kingdoms in peace? Well, now you can — because the world of Game of Thrones is coming back, and this time, you're in charge. At Summer Game Fest 2025, fans were hit with a wave of as the trailer for Game of Thrones: War for Westeros dropped — and let me tell you, it's not just another fantasy game. It's a full-blown real-time strategy experience where you decide who wins, who dies, and who wears the crown. What is Game of Thrones: War for Westeros? Game of Thrones: War for Westeros is a real-time strategy (RTS) game inspired by the legendary TV series and George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire novels. Players will take control of major houses such as Stark, Lannister, Targaryen, and others, aiming to conquer territories and win the Iron Throne through war, strategy, and diplomacy. From Winterfell to King's Landing, the entire map of Westeros is yours to control — but only if you play your cards right. Key gameplay features and mechanics According to the trailer, the game is packed with high-quality graphics, an emotional soundtrack, and game mechanics tailored for both casual players and hard-core strategists. Here are some highlights: Choose your house: Command your favourite noble house with unique strengths and weaknesses. Fight in real-time: Control armies and make live decisions in the heat of battle. Control armies and make live decisions in the heat of battle. Engage in politics: Form alliances, break treaties, and betray rivals — just like in the show. Form alliances, break treaties, and betray rivals — just like in the show. Multiplayer options: Battle with friends or random players across the globe. Battle with friends or random players across the globe. Immersive storytelling: Follow customized narratives that adapt to your choices. When is it releasing and on what platforms? While the exact release date hasn't been announced yet, Game of Thrones: War for Westeros is expected to launch in 2026. The game will be available on PC. Jon Snow being killed by the Night King in 'GAME OF THRONES: WAR FOR WESTEROS' A new real-time strategy game releasing in 2026. — westerosies (@westerosies) June 6, 2025 Why this game could be the next big hit? What makes War for Westeros different is its deep world-building and emotionally intense strategy gameplay. Unlike many other fantasy games, this one stays true to the gritty, unpredictable nature of the Game of Thrones universe. Fans are already calling it one of the most anticipated strategy game, and keywords like 'Game of Thrones new game,' 'War for Westeros trailer,' and 'Westeros strategy game' are trending in search engines worldwide. Whether you're a loyal fan of the series or simply love strategy games, Game of Thrones: War for Westeros looks like a title worth waiting for. The trailer promises a world where your choices decide who wins or dies, and where every battle could change the future of Westeros. So, gear up. In this war, you are not just a player — you are a ruler. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending. First Published: Jun 07, 2025, 17:42 IST We bring you news from the wonderland - where the mundane takes a backseat and the extraordinary reigns supreme! Dive into a kaleidoscope of viral oddities and offbeat trends that'll leave you scratching your head one moment and doubling over with laughter the next! Read More 7/6/2025 17:47:7
NBC News
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NBC News
George R.R. Martin vents about fans who say he'll 'never finish' next 'Game of Thrones' book
Winter is coming very, very slowly for fans of "A Song of Ice and Fire." George R. R. Martin, author of the fantasy novel series that led to HBO's wildly popular "Game of Thrones" television series, voiced his frustration this week about readers who think that the sixth book, "The Winds of Winter," will not be completed. In a post on his official blog on Wednesday, Martin was originally announcing his involvement with an animated project unrelated to his hit fantasy franchise. But he then took a moment to address the skeptical fans of "A Song of Ice and Fire." "I know, I know," Martin wrote. "Some of you will just be pissed off by this, as you are by everything I announce here that is not about Westeros or THE WINDS OF WINTER. You have given up on me, or on the book." "I will never finish WINDS," Martin wrote."If I do, I will never finish A DREAM OF SPRING," referring to what would have been the series' seventh book. "If I do, it won't be any good," he wrote, seemingly repeating accusations from critics. "I ought to get some other writer to pinch hit for me… I am going to die soon anyway, because I am so old. I lost all interest in A Song of Ice and Fire decades ago. I don't give a s--- about writing any longer, I just sit around and spend my money." Although he didn't say when or if he would finish the next books in the series, he explained he does still care about the franchise and its characters. "The Starks and Lannisters and Targaryens, Tyrion and Asha, Dany and Daenerys, the dragons and the direwolves, I care about them all," Martin wrote. "More than you can ever imagine." But he said he also has a passion for the rest of his work that he believes his fans "don't care about." Martin mentioned a few short stories he wrote long before "A Game of Thrones," such as "A Song for Lya" and "This Tower of Ashes," in addition to compilations of short stories that he edited more recently, like the 2013 cross-genre anthology "Dangerous Women." Martin said recently he signed on with Lion Forge Entertainment to adapt the late Howard Waldrop's 1989 novella "A Dozen Tough Jobs" — his take on the Twelve Labors of Hercules — into an animated feature, news the author credited The Hollywood Reporter with breaking on May 21. "It saddens me that he did not live long enough to see the film; I hope we do him justice," Martin wrote.
