#with image description
Okay, granted, it’s been a while since I’ve seen “all trans readers like one kind of fic, and no trans readers ever like another kind of fic, so it is Transphobia when you write the Wrong Kind.”
…but it hasn’tbeen that long since I’ve seen someone quietly wonder if they’re a Bad Trans Person for having preferences.
So it’s never a bad time to say: different people have different needs, and it’s okay to be fulfilled by different kinds of stories!
(heck, the sameperson might have different needs at different points in their own life, and that’s okay too)
[image ID: a comic. it shows two people talking to the viewer. both are wearing tops with the colors of the trans flag
first person says: “I’m a trans person who likes fanfiction!”
second one says: “I am also a trans person who likes fanfiction!”
first person looks excited as they bring their hands together near their cheek, almost dreamily, and continues: “I like it when fic interprets a character as trans, in a realistic way. It makes me feel seen and represented!”
second person is extending a hand as if to defend themself, and says: “I don’t want to read realistic fic about a character being trans! It brings up too many thoughts about painful personal experiences.”
on the next panel, their roles reverse, and the first person looks defensive and almost apologetical as they say: “I don’t want to read fic with unrealistic magical genderbending. It’s just depressing as a contrast to how serious and complex those issues are in my life.”
the second person looks dreamily on as they say: “I love fic about unrealistic magical genderbending! It’s a fun way to play with those issues and ideas, without getting so real that it hits too close to home!”
they then give each other an one-armed hug, both pointing at the other in a companiable way. first person says: “… Your preferences are cool and reasonable and totally valid.” second person replies: “So are yours! And you should be able to find the things you like.” first person answers: “Right back at you! Even when those things don’t work for me!”
second person finishes up, adding: “Because different individual trans people can have different tastes and needs, and that’s okay!”. end ID]
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