Fanlore

Over the last two years, I have become quite involved in writing material for a fan wiki called fanlore. Wikis are collaborative efforts to produce web pages on a particular project, the most famous example being Wikipedia. Fanlore is a website dedicated to fandoms: communities of fans, their people, clubs and activities. Although there are a number of fan wikis on science fiction or related fandoms on the Internet, Fanlore appears to be very inclusive of fans and fanac across a wide range of fandoms, from Sherlock Holmes to Star Trek, from literary SF to media SF, from clubs and fanzines to conventions, and more.

Why spend time on fandoms? Because human societies have always been associated with communities coming together to network, share common interests, offer mutual assistance, discuss and debate ideas of collective interest, and reinterpret those philosophies in order to maximise their relevance and continuation in changing times. In the past, religions and mythologies offered forms of fandom and opportunities to adopt and adapt those ideas to suit the individual or collective need. Cultural templates involved heroes from Odysseus to Romulus and Remus, from King Arthur or Robin Hood to Ned Kelly. We have seen the evolution of heroic templates and the ideals that fans have seen as laudable: from Jason and his Argonauts to Captain Kirk and his astronauts, our heroes explore strange new scenarios,and thereby allow fans to explore themselves and the ideas that they deem important.

Image by InspiredImages from Pixabay

In modern times, copyright and intellectual property rights trump fannish cultural appropriation of fictional heroes, but without cultural and consumer demand, even the best of fictional or heroic franchises will wither and die.

Readers and authors interact in a shared space of fandom and influence one another’s creative and interpretive work” – Nicolle Lamerichs, 2018 (p. 142)

It seems obvious to me that authors/creators and their fans have a symbiotic relationship that ultimately helps both to survive and succeed. Our folklore may define who we are and what we hold to be important, but our fanlore is the real-life experience of that folklore in action: a living, breathing expression of our culture and our personal/collective identity. Fans and fandoms drive our culture – from football to fan fiction, from sport to Spock, from music to the MCU, and from anime to activism. Documenting our fanlore is a contribution to recording and analysing our cultural life and its interactive nature.

I became involved in the Fanlore wiki because I felt that this was a good opportunity to publish tributes and memorials for deceased fan friends or to document past fan activities. I have subsequently come to see it also as a way of paying tribute for others who are still alive and significant in fandom. In my fifty years of being an SF fan, I have known people who have told me how fandom (including the local Star Trek club) literally saved their lives by giving them extended families, or who introduced them to fellow fen who became spouses or significant others in their own lives. Whole families and fresh generations of fans literally owe their existence to fandom because their parents met in the local Star Trek club or MSFC or wherever. Others have moved from writing fan fiction to becoming professional authors. Still others have explored career options because SF sparked an interest in science, technology, or working with people

In the two years (so far) that I have been involved with fanlore, I have created over fifty pages of material dedicated to individuals or clubs or fanzines, and I have contributed to over 120 other pages that already existed. It is fun and satisfying work. For one example, my page for the Melbourne Science Fiction Club has been selected to run as the “featured article’ on fanlore’s home page for the week from 2 to 8 December 2024, effectively advertising the club to fans around the world. In another example, a young fan told me:

“Hey Geoff, I’m also an Australian fan and recently stumbled across some of the pages you’ve created on here! I wanted to say thank you for your work documenting the history of SF fandom and its people in Melbourne. I really can’t express in words how I feel as a younger fan reading about people and communities I would have otherwise not even known existed, and it makes me so happy to see the care you’ve put into documenting them. Looking through the photos you’ve added in particular has given me a lot of joy, and has felt like I’m getting a bit of a glimpse into fandom back then even if I wasn’t there to experience it. I’ve just started watching Star Trek for the first time, and your contributions have inspired me to learn more about the fandom’s history in Australia — I might try and make it to an Austrek meeting sometime!”

Here is a list of the pages I have created or assisted so far:

Pages Created

2022

MSCF co-founders, including Merv Binns (back row, left). Photo supplied by Dick Jenssen (back row, right).

Spaced Out (club)
Solar Spectrum

2023

MASC Science Club
User: GeoffA (internal Fanlore admin page for myself)
Adrienne Losin
Helena Binns
Darren Maxwell
Betsi Ashton
Portals of Time
The Other Side of the Galaxy
Paul Murphy
Kate Doolan
Mervyn Binns
The Spiral Staircase (Australian Beauty and the Beast zine)
Greg Franklin
Out A Space

2024

Merv and Helena at Continuum 2009 (photo by Cat Sparks).

Theresa de Gabriele
John Edwards Davies
Dennis W Nicholson
Male Pair-Bonds and Female Desire in Fan Slash Writing
Wynne Whiteford
Dick Jenssen
Ian Gunn
David McDonnell (AUS)
KRin Pender-Gunn
Space Association of Australia
From Queer to Eternity
Kinkon
Melbourne Science Fiction Club
Gaybase Alpha
Melanie Nemer
Bofcon
The Science Fiction and Fantasy and Horror Fan Resource Book
AURORA (Robert O’Reilly fan club)
Marc D Lewis
U. F. P. Australia (Star Trek RPG Group)
Lee Harding
Ellen Hamlyn-Harris
Concinnity 95
Perdition’s Flames
Julie Townsend
Race Mathews
Leigh Edmonds
Amateur Fantasy Publications of Australia
ANZAPA
Norma Hemming
SF Commentary
Marjorie Miller
Cienan Muir
Afrofuturism
Africanfuturism
Bruce Gillespie
Hope Eyrie
The Space Age
Club News
Melbourne LEGO User Group (MUGs)
Brickvention

Pages Assisted

2022

Diane Marchant with her mother Jessie at Trekcon 1 (Australia’s first Star Trek convention) on 15 July 1978. (Photo by Helena Binns)

Geoff Tilley
Geoff Allshorn
Diane Marchant
Trekcon
Spock (zine)
These Are The Voyages (zine)
Trekkie Talk
Captain’s Log Supplamental
Spaced Out (zine)
Austrek
Starrag
The Star Gazer
MASC Newsletter
Interceptor
The Captain’s Log (Australian newsletter}

2023

Photo courtesy of Paul Murphy

Shayne McCormack
Fragments (Star Trek: TOS story)
Bob Johnson’s Star Trek Marathons
Life, But Not As We Know It: Star Trek, fan culture, slash fiction and the queering of Starfleet Command
Robert Jan
Gail Adams
Ish
Tuckerized
User:MeeDee
Doctor Who Club of Victoria
Beyond Antares (Australian Star Trek: TOS zine)
Supervoc
The Victorian Time Machine
Currents (UFO zine)
Time-Warped
Gene Roddenberry
Uhura/Chapel
The City on the Edge of the Yarra
Susan Sackett
AIDS and Fandom
Ditmar Award/Fan Winners
Mike McGann
Religion
Karen Lewis
Mary Sue
Worldcon
Ditmar Award
AussieTrek (Australian Star Trek con)
Film Clip Fandom
Galactic Tours Convention
The History of Austrek: How it all began…
Janice Rand
Zine
Star Walking Inc.
The Communicator (Star Trek Australian newsletter)
Diverse Universe
Auzwars Chronicles
Alliance (Star Wars zine published in Australia)
Sue Bursztynski
Multiverse Science Fiction Group
Spunk
The McCoy Tapes
K/S and Other Risque Stuff
Continuum (Australian convention)
Metaluna
H.A.M.I.L.L.S.
Strange Justice
Trek Hillbillies
Multiverse (multifandom zine)
Enterprise: The Star Trek Appreciation Society of Victoria
Susan Smith-Clarke
Betty Franklin
Aliens Made Them Do It
Sex Pollen
Gallifrey (Doctor Who fan club)

2024

Space: 1999
Hatstand
Medtrek (con)
The Garden Spot of Ceti Alpha V
Sarah J. Groenewegen
Star Trek Welcommittee
Slash vs. Gay
Genderswap
SinpOzium
Bjo Trimble
Kirk/Uhura (TOS)
Australian Science Fiction Convention
Katharine Shade
George Ivanoff
Shane Morrissey
Zencon
Star Walking Inc.
Force 2 (convention)
Multiverse (convention)
Ian Crozier
St. Elsewhere
Kolchak: The Night Stalker
Edith Keeler
Harlan Ellison
Jeremy Sadler
Blake’s 7
Gilligan’s Island
I Dream of Jeannie
Grace Lee Whitney
Grace Lee Whitney Fan Club
The Invaders (TV)
Sherlock Holmes
Queer Fandom
Bewitched (TV series)
The Persuaders
The Time Tunnel
Land of the Giants
Filk
Space-Time Continuum (Star Trek newsletter)
Aurora
Mark Lenard
Alien (film series)
Margaret
Jan MacNally
Stingray (Supermarionation series)
Trans Characters in Fandom
Star Trek Fotonovels
Fandom Nickname
The Fantastic Journey
Off Centaur Publications
Minus Ten and Counting: Songs of the Space Age (filk songbook)
Star Trek Association of Fans and Friends
Autism and Fandom
Race and Fandom
You Are Receiving this Zine Because
Agatha Christie
T’Pau
Minus Ten and Counting: Songs of the Space Age (filk album)
Probe
Teen Wolf
Talk:Fragments (Star Trek: TOS story)
A Fragment Out of Time

Why do I mention this activity?

I invite others to get involved in contributing to this archive, recording the history of modern 21st centrury culture – and interacting with it, contributing to change. Documenting the people, events, and fan terminology reminds me of anthropologists recording Polari from past LGBT communities, or any of the thousands of endangered other languages and cultures. It’s a big job, but fun.

See also:

Nicolle Lamerichs, 2018. Productive Fandom: Intermediality and Affective Reception in Fan Cultures, Amsterdam University Press

©2024 Geoff Allshorn

The Power of Music

The Power of Music: “Why Wars”
and My Journey from Uganda to the Future

Adastra is a rising musician whose life reflects his experiences across Africa, and whose resilience speaks volumes about optimism and hope. As he celebrates his 39th birthday after a hectic week in a music studio, he reflects on the journey he has made to get to this point, and the long trek he has ahead. His professional name, Adastra, whose stage name comes from the Latin: “ad astra: to the stars” ties strongly with the Afrofuturist perspective of aiming for a better future by challenging us to listen to the better angels of our nature. Meanwhile, refugees in Palestine, Ukraine, Yemen, South Sudan, Syria, Afghanistan, Venezuela, Myanmar, and across Africa, lie heavy in his thoughts while the world ignores these and other places of conflict. Here, he speaks from the heart of his music and of the future:

= = =

Music has always been a powerful medium for expressing emotions, sharing stories, and advocating for change. My latest music video, “Why Wars,” is a profound reflection of my personal journey and the broader struggles faced by many. As a writer, musician, and human rights activist, my life’s work has been deeply intertwined with my experiences and the challenges I’ve encountered along the way. The way I see it, the past does not control the future, but the present can. I live day to day but with hope for the future to be better than today.

The Song: “Why Wars”

“Why Wars” is more than just a song; it’s a plea for peace and understanding in a world that often seems fractured by conflict and division. The track combines contemporary music styles with a poignant message, highlighting the senselessness of war and the urgent need for dialogue and reconciliation. Its powerful lyrics and stirring melodies aim to reach people across borders, making them reflect on the cost of violence and the value of unity.

Music to me is a way for me to be able to reach many people, and to spread positive energy in a world controlled by negative energy. Also, the chance of one of my songs going viral is high and I just have to continue what I love doing.

My Personal Journey

My journey as an LGBTIQ activist in Uganda was marked by both courage and adversity. In a country where advocating for LGBTIQ rights is criminalized, my work was not only a personal mission but also a significant risk. The oppressive environment forced me to leave Uganda and seek refuge elsewhere, where I continue to face challenges yet remain resolute in my commitment to human rights and social justice.

The struggles I face are emblematic of the broader issues many activists confront, such as financial difficulties, life insecurities, persecution, and so on. Despite these difficulties, I am driven by the belief that my voice and my art can inspire change. “Why Wars” is a testament to this belief, reflecting my own experiences.

The Global Importance of “Why Wars”

The message of “Why Wars” is not just a local or personal one; it is a universal call for action and understanding. In a world increasingly characterized by polarization, conflict, and division, the need for a message of peace and reconciliation is more critical than ever. Spreading the message of “Why Wars” internationally is crucial for several reasons:

1. Universal Relevance: Conflicts and divisions are not confined to any single region. By sharing “Why Wars” on a global scale, we can address the universal aspects of these issues, reminding people everywhere of the common humanity that binds us all.

2. Fostering Dialogue: Music has the unique ability to bridge gaps between different cultures and communities. By reaching a diverse audience, “Why Wars” can foster dialogue and encourage people from different backgrounds to come together and discuss ways to resolve conflicts and promote peace.

3. Raising Awareness: Many people around the world are unaware of the depth of the struggles faced by activists and marginalized communities. The international spread of “Why Wars” can bring attention to these issues, generating empathy and support for those fighting for justice and equality.

4. Inspiring Action: Music can be a powerful catalyst for change. By amplifying the message of “Why Wars” across borders, we can inspire individuals and communities to take action, whether through advocacy, policy change, or grassroots efforts to promote peace.

The Need for “Why Wars” to be Heard

I urge everyone to listen to “Why Wars” and share it widely. Its message is one that needs to be heard everywhere—to inspire individuals, provoke thought, and drive action. Music has the power to unite us, challenge injustices, and foster a sense of shared purpose.

By supporting “Why Wars,” you are not only engaging with a piece of music but also contributing to a larger movement for change. Your support helps amplify voices like mine, who are working tirelessly to make a difference despite the personal sacrifices.

Looking Ahead

“Why Wars” is more than a song; it is a beacon of hope and a call to action. As I continue my work, my commitment to human rights remains unwavering. This music video is both a personal expression and a universal appeal for peace and understanding. I invite you to join me in spreading this message and supporting the cause for a world free from conflict and injustice. Adastra

If you would like to help Adastra, please donate to his cause

This blog ©2024 Geoff Allshorn. All rights returned to the original author.

Sic Itur Ad Astra

A filksong to the lyrics of “Angels We Have Heard on High” (public domain)

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Astronauts we watch up high,
Reaching for the stars their aim,
And the clouds beneath them hie
Reflecting their joyous strain:

Gloria, sic itur ad astra!
Gloria, sic itur ad astra!

Apollo 11 lunar footprint (NASA photo)

Science, why this scandalry?
Why your wondrous works denied?
We should all most gladly be
Inspired by your deserved pride.

Gloria, sic itur ad astra!
Gloria, sic itur ad astra!

STS089 (1998) — The Nullarbor Plain and the coastal escarpment rises abruptly to 500 feet above sea level. Photo credit: NASA

Watch and learn and strive and see
Denialism disavowed.
Come, adore on bended knee
How our lives are better now.

Gloria, sic itur ad astra!
Gloria, sic itur ad astra!

NASA photo

Across land and air and sea,
In and ’round and ‘bove the earth!
Our space age technology
Enhances our lives and worth.

Gloria, sic itur ad astra!
Gloria, sic itur ad astra!

©2024 Geoff Allshorn.

O little town of Bethlehem

Image by Brigitte make custom works from your photos, thanks a lot from Pixabay

O little town of Bethlehem
Engulfed in war and death!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The world draws bated breath.
For in your dark streets brimmeth
The ghosts of all those lost,
Our hopes and fears meet deafened ears
Your children are the cost.

The Christ story of ancient times
Is told anew today
While women search for birthing place
“No room” – they are turned away.
No mourning for the children
The lost of Gaza’s birth.
A massacre of innocents
No peace across the Earth.

The women of Afghanistan
Their hopes are a lost refrain.
The children dying in Yemen
or Sudan or the Ukraine.
No ear may hear their suffering
But in this world of choice,
Let humble folk rise up and fight,
And give others a Voice.

Our world is full of ancient yore
Of nobility and memes
And yet we see mass death and war
That seem to negate our dreams.
May we all find renewed hope
Real action, not blank stares.
Becoming our own answer to
Those yearned-for thoughts and prayers.

O hollow town of Bethlehem
Why do we ignore your plight,
While affluent folk everywhere
Share gifts only for one night?
They smile and bleat platitudes,
Proclaiming peace on Earth,
While others wail their silent cries
And die in shameful dearth.

Oh ancient tale of Bethlehem
You seem very far away,
Especially from Ugandan queers
Or trans folk in USA.
As we hear Christmas carols
May we please learn anew
The moral strengths attributed
One Palestinian Jew!*

*With thanks to Leunig (“Away in A Manger”, The Age, 15 December 2023) for the inspiration.

©2023 Geoff Allshorn