You've just hit on something interesting. I think that one reason I like to read fanfic, even if I can't write it, is because I have always written 'in media res' which is where most fanfic comes from. And also, I like to write the same characters into different stories-- I do seem to be developing a couple of coherent 'verses' where the focus of one story appears in other stories as well, interacting in different ways. Like writing 'original slash' I've come to realise that I write 'original fanfic.'

To be honest a part of my campaign is not only for my own creativity, but political as well-- I am sick to death of the screams of 'Mary sue" that go up at the merest mention of an OFC, I think it's become pernicious and stultifying to young writers who never dare to write women because of it-- much less original ones-- and I can't think of a better place to encourage them to try after all, than a fest celebrating awesome women!