selfinsertions

Self-insertion is a narrative technique in which a character representing the author or reader is placed into the story as an active participant. In fan fiction, self-insertions are often used as avatars or surrogates for the writer or reader, and may be assigned a personal name or kept as a generic "you" or "I" narrator. They frequently appear in second-person or first-person narration and can range from modest background appearances to central protagonists.

Forms and scope: Self-inserts can be canon-compliant, where the insert character operates within the established world and timelines, or set in an alternate universe (AU) where the character's involvement alters events. They can vary in emphasis from plot-critical ally to informal wish-fulfillment.

Purposes and effects: The technique aims to enhance immersion and reader identification, or to explore hypothetical relationships and scenarios. In role-playing communities, self-inserts function as the user's on-page persona. Some writers use them to experiment with voice or to test ideas before developing an original character.

Criticism and reception: Self-insertion is controversial. Critics argue it can disrupt character balance, erode believability, or overshadow established figures. The term "Mary Sue" (or Gary Stu for males) is used to describe particularly unconvincing or overpowered inserts, though its applicability is debated. Community norms vary; some forums discourage or regulate overt self-insertion, while others celebrate it as a form of expression.

In other media: Metafictional self-insertion can appear in novels or games where a character acknowledges being a writing instrument or where players directly influence the narrative through a self-insert avatar.