Here's what we know:
* Early stance: Initially, Meyer expressed discouragement towards fan fiction, viewing it as unauthorized use of her characters and stories. She even went so far as to ask fans to refrain from writing it.
* Shifting perspective: However, her attitude softened over time. She acknowledged that fan fiction can be a form of creative expression and a way for fans to connect with the stories they love.
* Current approach: Today, Meyer generally doesn't actively discourage fan fiction. She recognizes its existence and even expresses appreciation for the passion fans pour into it.
However, there are some important points to keep in mind:
* Copyright concerns: While Meyer doesn't actively pursue legal action against fan fiction authors, she still retains copyright over her characters and stories. This means fan fiction writers need to be aware of potential legal implications and avoid monetizing their work.
* Fan fiction guidelines: Meyer has never explicitly outlined specific guidelines for fan fiction, but she has mentioned her preference for works that are "respectful" of her characters and story.
* Official fan fiction: Meyer has authorized a couple of official fan fiction projects, including a "Twilight" story written by a fan that was chosen in a contest. This highlights her willingness to engage with fans in a creative way.
In conclusion:
While Stephenie Meyer may not actively encourage fan fiction, she has become more accepting of its existence. Fan writers should be mindful of copyright concerns and aim for respectful and creative works. However, she has also shown a willingness to collaborate with fans on official projects, opening up exciting possibilities for the future of fan fiction in the Twilight universe.