Aug 28 2000: 

Firstly, what is my definition of fans?
My definition of fans is that they will like their idols alot, and won't do things which harm the idols.

However I see many fans who claim to have 'no choice', or using another excuse to 'spread laruku' around. I am talking about MP3s. (sue me! I knew it was gonna be sensitive. It created many-a-flame.)

Why do fans do this? Are they just trying to create an excuse for their pathetic selves? I have no idea. If they plan to get it, fine. But most of the time, most of the people whom I've encountered with MP3s are that all they do is search for MP3s without intending to buy the album in the first place, even a cheaper asian version isn't cheap enough for them. Or are they just selfish? If they're really darn poor, then why would they have enough money to pay the internet bills AND get the computer c/w the programs in the first place? Might as well save the internet bills to buy the CDs and support the artists.

You can see my definition of a fan now.

Regarding to piracy, I personally have no comments towards the people whom I individually know. ^-^ But my stand is always that if you are a true fan, you will buy originals, simple as that. "These bands are rich", it's just another excuse. Damage done can amount to at least thousands in seriously large-scale cases. Which explains the almost-collapse of Napster (it didn't however. *shrug* It's just some site which earns money while people do their stuff.) due to protests of artists.

I mean, take for example, if you drew an art, you'd be plenty pissed to see it on others' site claiming _your_ credit while you get no sense of satisfaction, no?
It's not exactly the best way of comparison, but... ^^; That'd do for the time being. I mean, come on. People work their butts off just to make good music to make a living and to share their souls with you. Rich or not, they deserve credit, cash, sales so that they may be motivated/feel more appreciated/ more into the spotlight.

The only thing I don't have against in piracy is bootlegs, which is unauthorized release of stuff that has never been published before. (note -never- been published).

Another thing is regarding the artists' wishes. I still have contradicting thoughts to this...
Take L'Arc for example, they don't want to have their pictures on sites. (^^; mine was here because someone was nice to me. Else I won't have bothered, and it's because of personal matters, not this.) 
Also, Tetsu mentioned that after the concerts, its' always very dirty (I think he needs to get out and -know- that it's -always- dirty after gathering^^;;;), and fans go around picking up litter 'because tetsu says so'.

It's not like I can't understand those fans' thoughts. But personally, I myself can reason it out that if I don't litter, I don't have to do anything else.
But I admire them... ^^;;; really... ..

Are we really like dogs which bitten their masters' hand when we get consumed by our own enthusiasm? I have no idea either. ^^; If their freedom has been threaded upon, sorry but it's cold hard truth of the world. I mean, come on. You're almost worshipped like a god. ^^;;; ; I don't think Jesus had any privacy when the bible was written.

Although, I still think (as a part of the 'loyal' fan that I am^^;;;; ; *commits suicide*) that we should follow their wishes.... *mou*

Lastly, the 'respect' problem. Basically what has been said can be achieved through 'respect'.
But I think... .As idols, they have become more than musicians and they're an icon to everyone's lives. Obsession = no respect most of the time, because having hentai thoughts about someone (see: hido having thoughts about hyde and tetsu) is not respectable UNLESS it's done in a holy manner which is similar to LOVE.
But there is a difference between love and obsession. I won't delve into that, but I have come to realize that insane fangirls usually don't show respect. (me included.)
For example, when they are slashed, is it a respectable thing? It is not their wish to be slashed. (although I think they are -asking- for it... *laughs* They're just too cute together!) Personally I see love as a very sacred thing.... 

Yes, it's not respectable to slash them. Most of the time the fiction is derived out of insane minds as per many fan arts too. 

Now, to go into the "fan" and "art".
if it is "art", it should be as holy as well. (fics included into that category, ok?)
Now hidoko shall attempt an excuse for herself. It doesn't represent many of the yaoists, since she doesn't KNOW any hyde x tetsu fans personally other than a precious... TWO?! O_O; (there used to be more... *sniffle, glares at Jara and Rei meaningfully*) 

anyway.. .^^;
What is my excuse? 
My work is art, simple as that.
I don't see myself as superbly skilled, but it is the essence of mind which is put inside into making the work. ^^; Makes sense? 
In thinking that Hyde x tetsu should be together, it has become an almost sacred thought (which explains why I freaked out at Kaoru x Tetsu, Gackt x Tetsu and so on and so forth). It is with a heart of purity (dont puke) that I percieve this, that they shouldn't be with anyone but each other because I see them as perfect for each other. Why not? There are too  many probable couples in the world, why do I choose them? Why doesn't my thoughts change? because it is sacred to me. 

so.. .. In conclusion.. .^^;
There is no conclusion. Although it should be said that slashing is only another branch of fandom and doesnt ruin the band (not directly) as compared to piracy (excluding bootlegs-unreleased stuff unofficially), and due respect of the artists... .. 

I think it's just my thoughts. ^^;;; Not much points made. Sorry if I offended anyone, if you want you can mail me your thoughts and I'll stick it beside this or something. Flames will be happily flooded over with the snow at the background. ^_^