sousaku

Sousaku is a Japanese term that translates roughly to "creation" or "original work." It is most commonly used in the context of fanfiction and fan art to describe content that is not derived from existing copyrighted material in the same way as fanfiction or fan art based on specific anime, manga, or video games. Sousaku works are entirely original creations by the author or artist.

The concept of sousaku encourages creators to develop unique characters, worlds, and stories without relying on pre-established franchises. This allows for a broader range of creative expression and can lead to the emergence of entirely new genres and themes within fan communities. While the term is primarily associated with fan-created works, it can also be applied to any original artistic endeavor that emphasizes the creator's unique vision and concept.

In practice, sousaku works often involve creators establishing their own distinct universes with their own rules, histories, and inhabitants. This stands in contrast to transformative works, which take existing elements and reimagine them. The emphasis in sousaku is on building something from the ground up, showcasing the creator's imagination and storytelling abilities. This can be a challenging but rewarding path for artists and writers seeking to explore their own creative potential.