Biden & Trump Fanfic: AO3's Unexpected Trend

Hey guys! Ever stumble upon something so unexpected online that it just makes you stop and stare? Well, buckle up, because we're diving into the wild world of Joe Biden and Donald Trump fanfiction on Archive of Our Own (AO3). Yes, you read that right. The internet is a vast and sometimes bizarre place, and this is a prime example.

What is Archive of Our Own (AO3)?

Before we dive into the intriguing world of Biden/Trump fanfic, let's quickly cover what AO3 actually is. Archive of Our Own is a non-profit, open-source fanfiction repository created by fans for fans. It's a place where anyone can post and read fan-created content, from stories and poems to artwork and podcasts, based on pretty much any fandom you can think of. Unlike some other fanfic sites, AO3 is known for its strong community, its dedication to protecting fan works, and its very liberal approach to content. So, whether you're into Harry Potter, Marvel, or, apparently, political figures, AO3 has got you covered.

The Rise of an Unlikely Pairing

Okay, let’s get to the juicy part: why are Joe Biden and Donald Trump featuring in fanfiction, and why is it a thing on AO3? Honestly, the internet is a strange and wonderful place, and sometimes, things just… happen. The rise of this particular pairing can be attributed to a few factors. Firstly, political discourse has become increasingly polarized and, let's face it, theatrical. The real-life interactions between Biden and Trump, often filled with tension and drama, inadvertently lend themselves to fanfiction tropes. Think of it as taking the enemies-to-lovers trope to a whole new level. Secondly, AO3 is a platform that encourages creativity without limits. There are no restrictions on what you can write, and the community is generally accepting of all kinds of pairings, no matter how unconventional. This creates an environment where even the most outlandish ideas can find an audience. Finally, let’s not underestimate the power of satire and political commentary. Many of these fics use the Biden/Trump pairing as a way to explore political themes, critique ideologies, or simply poke fun at the current state of affairs. It’s a way for writers to express their views through a creative and often humorous lens.

Exploring the Fanfiction Themes

So, what kind of stories are we talking about here? Well, the range is as diverse as you can imagine. Some stories portray Biden and Trump as reluctant allies forced to work together to solve a crisis. Others delve into the enemies-to-lovers trope, exploring the complex dynamic between the two figures as they navigate their personal and political differences. And then there are the more outlandish tales that venture into alternate universes, gender-bending scenarios, or even supernatural elements. Whatever floats your boat, right? Common themes include political intrigue, power dynamics, and surprisingly, a fair amount of romance. Some authors use the pairing to explore deeper issues like reconciliation, understanding, and the possibility of finding common ground in a divided world. Others simply revel in the absurdity of it all, creating stories that are purely for entertainment value. Regardless of the specific plot, these fics often offer a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the current political landscape. It's like holding a mirror to society, reflecting our anxieties, hopes, and, let's be honest, our guilty pleasures.

Why People Read and Write It

Now, you might be wondering, who is actually reading and writing this stuff? Good question! The audience for Biden/Trump fanfic is as varied as the stories themselves. Some readers are drawn to the novelty and humor of the pairing. Others are genuinely interested in exploring the complex dynamics between the two figures. And some are simply looking for a way to engage with politics in a more creative and lighthearted way. Writers, on the other hand, may be motivated by a desire to express their political views, to challenge societal norms, or simply to have fun. For many, it’s a way to reclaim the narrative and to imagine alternative realities. By placing these figures in unexpected situations, writers can subvert expectations and offer fresh perspectives on familiar topics. It's a form of creative expression that allows them to engage with politics on their own terms.

Diving Deeper into the Phenomenon

The Biden/Trump fanfic phenomenon also speaks to the broader trend of using fanfiction as a form of political engagement. In an era of increasing political polarization and social media activism, fanfiction provides a space for individuals to express their views and connect with others who share their interests. It's a way to make sense of the world, to process complex emotions, and to find community in a digital age. Moreover, the popularity of this particular pairing highlights the power of the internet to disrupt traditional norms and challenge established power structures. By creating and sharing these stories, fans are subverting the traditional media landscape and creating their own narratives. It's a form of grassroots activism that is both creative and empowering. So, the next time you stumble upon a Biden/Trump fanfic, remember that it's more than just a quirky internet trend. It's a reflection of our society, our politics, and our collective imagination.

Examples of Popular Tropes

Let's dive into some popular tropes you might find in Biden/Trump fanfiction. Prepare for some unexpected twists!

Enemies to Lovers

Ah, the classic trope! In this scenario, Biden and Trump start as bitter rivals, constantly at each other's throats. But as they're forced to work together (maybe on a secret mission or a bipartisan project), they slowly start to see each other in a new light. Cue the intense eye contact, the accidental touches, and the realization that maybe, just maybe, there's something more beneath the animosity. This trope is all about exploring the complex emotions that can arise when you're forced to confront your own prejudices and biases. It's a journey of self-discovery, as both characters learn to see beyond their political differences and appreciate each other as individuals.

Forced Proximity

Stuck in an elevator? Trapped on a desert island? You name it, these two are forced to be in close quarters. This trope is all about creating tension and intimacy in unexpected situations. As they navigate their confined space, they're forced to confront their feelings for each other, whether they like it or not. The close proximity amplifies their emotions, making it impossible to ignore the attraction that's been simmering beneath the surface. It's a recipe for both comedy and drama, as they struggle to maintain their composure in the face of their undeniable chemistry.

Alternate Universe (AU)

This is where things get really wild. Imagine Biden and Trump as college roommates, rival chefs, or even vampires. The possibilities are endless! AUs allow writers to completely reimagine the characters and their relationships, creating stories that are both imaginative and thought-provoking. By removing the constraints of reality, they can explore different facets of the characters' personalities and delve into themes that might not be possible in a more realistic setting. It's a chance to play with the established narratives and create something completely new and unexpected.

Political Intrigue

Of course, there are plenty of stories that delve into the nitty-gritty of politics. Think backstabbing, secret alliances, and power struggles. But with a twist! These stories often explore the ethical dilemmas faced by political leaders and the compromises they must make to achieve their goals. By placing Biden and Trump in these high-stakes situations, writers can examine the complexities of power and the human cost of political ambition. It's a way to explore the dark side of politics and to question the motivations of those who wield power.

The Appeal and Controversy

Okay, let's address the elephant in the room: why is this appealing to some, and why is it controversial to others? The appeal often lies in the humor, the unexpectedness, and the creative exploration of complex relationships. For some, it's a way to engage with politics in a more lighthearted and imaginative way. It's a form of escapism that allows them to reimagine the world according to their own desires. However, it's also easy to see why this kind of content can be controversial. Politics is a sensitive topic, and the idea of romanticizing or sexualizing political figures can be seen as disrespectful or even offensive. Some argue that it trivializes important issues and normalizes harmful behavior. It's a fine line between creative expression and political commentary, and not everyone will agree on where that line should be drawn.

The Ethical Considerations

Beyond the general controversy, there are also ethical considerations to keep in mind. Is it appropriate to create fictional stories about real people, especially when those stories involve sensitive topics like sex or violence? Some argue that it's a form of invasion of privacy, while others maintain that it's a legitimate form of artistic expression. The key is to be respectful and mindful of the potential impact of your work. Avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes or promoting violence, and always consider the perspectives of those who might be affected by your stories. Ultimately, the decision of what to write and what to avoid is a personal one, but it's important to approach the topic with sensitivity and awareness.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! The world of Joe Biden and Donald Trump fanfiction on AO3 is a wild, weird, and surprisingly thought-provoking corner of the internet. Whether you find it hilarious, disturbing, or just plain bizarre, there's no denying that it sparks conversation and challenges our perceptions of politics and creativity. It's a reminder that the internet is a place where anything is possible, and that even the most unlikely pairings can find a fanbase. So, the next time you're looking for something to read, why not give it a try? You might just be surprised at what you discover. And hey, if nothing else, it's a great conversation starter at your next awkward family gathering!