Follow-Up Poll: AU versus AR

[kennahijja]

Alright, people - I ran into a definition problem with yesterday's poll. Basically, I used the options Alternate Universe (AU) and Alternate Reality (AR) because those often turn up as categories in archives, but I have no idea what they mean exactly.

Ok, I do know what area they cover - from 'nonmagical AU' to H/D as dragon riders in a fantasy dimension to Harry-in-Slytherin to Sirius/Remus living happily ever after after the war, no Veil. But the difference? Not a clue. So...


[Poll #785583]

And abuse the comments if you run out of space!

Comments

[ariss-tenoh.livejournal.com]

To be honest, I always thought they meant the same thing^_^

I've seen a lot of fans in different fandoms become testy and belittle AUs and those who write them, so some writers started calling their fics Alternate Reality which is like splitting hairs really. Because if we're going to discuss it, ANY diviation from a canon plot or event would be AU.

[kennahijja.livejournal.com]

I've always thought they meant vaguely the same thing... but never bothered to figure out until they bit me in the butt :).

Love your explanation! ;)

[ariss-tenoh.livejournal.com]

I never knew AUs had a stigma attached to them till I happened upon a lot of fan discussions on why AUs are evil and that nonsense.

[kennahijja.livejournal.com]

I think I heard it the first time from you just now :). That simply never occurred to me. I find them great fun.