The phenomenon of "shipping" has become increasingly prevalent in online fandom culture, particularly in fan fiction writing. This practice involves pairing fictional characters together romantically or sexually, creating stories that explore their potential relationship dynamics and intimate encounters.
Some scholars have argued that this seemingly innocuous activity can be understood as a means to express underlying sexual desires and fantasies. This article will delve into these unconscious motivations behind shipping behavior and how they are reflected in popular pairings.
Exploring the Desire for Intimacy and Connection
One reason why people may engage in shipping is due to a desire for emotional connection and intimacy. By imagining characters in romantic or sexual relationships, fans can create scenarios where they experience closeness and vulnerability that may not be available in their own lives. Shipping allows them to escape into a world where they feel seen, heard, and valued by others, which can be gratifying.
It provides an opportunity to explore different aspects of love and attraction, such as power dynamics or gender roles, without the social consequences of real-life relationships.
Satisfying Sexual Desires
Another possible explanation for the appeal of shipping is its erotic nature. Fans may find themselves aroused by the idea of certain characters being paired together, leading them to write or read explicit fan fiction involving those couples. Ships can also provide a safe space for exploration of taboo desires, such as incest or non-consensual activities, without judgment or societal condemnation. This sense of freedom can be incredibly liberating for many individuals who struggle with their sexuality or identity.
The Need for Control and Predictability
Some researchers suggest that shipping can satisfy a need for control and predictability. By creating narratives about characters' relationships, fans have the ability to exert agency over their favorite stories and develop plotlines that align with their own preferences. This can be comforting and reassuring, particularly for those who may feel powerless in other areas of their life.
Shipping communities often function like online families, providing support and validation to members through shared interests and experiences.
Reflecting on Unconscious Motivations
While shipping may seem innocuous on the surface, there are underlying motivations behind this behavior that reveal much about our unconscious needs and desires. Whether it is for emotional connection, sexual gratification, or a desire for control, these impulses are an integral part of human experience and expression. Understanding and acknowledging these motivations can help us better understand ourselves and each other within fandom culture.
What unconscious desires are gratified by the popularity of “ships” in online fandom culture?
There are various reasons why fans of fictional characters might form "shipping" relationships within an online community. One possible reason is that it allows them to explore different fantasies and scenarios that they may not be able to experience in real life. By creating their own narratives around their favorite couples, they can satisfy their need for escapism and creativity.