I have always been delighted when told there was a piece of fanfic inspired by a book of mine floating about. I don't read it for legal reasons, but I'm thrilled to know it's there. Someone cared. Someone loved it enough to spend their free time writing about it for free.

The quote by Catherynne M. Valente reflects her positive and appreciative attitude toward fan fiction, a genre of writing created by fans based on existing works of fiction. Valente expresses delight in knowing that her books have inspired readers to create their own stories, even if she chooses not to engage with them directly for legal reasons. She acknowledges the emotional connection readers have to her work and finds joy in the fact that people are motivated enough to dedicate their free time to writing about it.

The origin of the quote can be traced back to Valente's response to the growing trend of fanfiction surrounding her own books. While many authors may feel possessive or protective over their intellectual property, Valente takes a different stance, focusing on the affection and enthusiasm that fans channel into their creative expressions. Her words emphasize how fanfic serves as a form of tribute and shows how much someone cares about a story or world.

Valente also touches on the selflessness of fan fiction creators, noting that they often write for free, with no expectation of compensation or recognition. This highlights the passion and personal connection fans feel towards the original work, demonstrating how deeply it resonates with them. Through her quote, Valente demonstrates respect for fan creators while maintaining her own boundaries regarding their work.

Ultimately, this quote encapsulates Valente's understanding of creative fandom and the mutual respect between author and reader, while recognizing that fan fiction can be a form of artistic expression, one fueled by admiration and love for the original work.