Fanzine

A fanzine (see also: zine) is a nonprofessional publication produced by fans of a particular subject for the pleasure of others who share their interest. The term was coined in October 1940 by Russ Chauvenet and first popularized within science fiction fandom, though that group did not invent the concept.

Origin

The origins of "fanzines" are obscure, but can be traced at least back to 19th-century literary groups in the United States which formed amateur press associations to publish collections of amateur fiction, poetry and commentary. These publications were produced first on small tabletop printing presses, often by students.

Related Topics:
United States - Amateur press association - Printing press

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As professional printing technology progressed, so did the technology of fanzines. Early fanzines were hand-drafted or typed on a manual typewriter and printed using primitive reproduction techniques (e.g., the spirit duplicator or even the hectograph). Only a very small number of copies could be made at a time, so circulation was extremely limited. The use of mimeograph machines enabled higher press runs, and the photocopier increased the speed and ease of publishing once more. Today, thanks to the advent of desktop publishing and self-publication, there is often little difference between the appearance of a fanzine and a professionally produced magazine.

Related Topics:
Typewriter - Spirit duplicator - Hectograph - Mimeograph machine - Photocopier - Desktop publishing - Self-publication - Magazine

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