I agree with Rutherford that the internet definitely fuels the formation of taste cultures by attempting to bring the writer, publisher, and reader together. I like when she states that the publishing industry "uses the Internet and social media in ways that deliberately disguise a promotional intent, mimicking the ostensibly non–commercial discourse of youth sociability in online channels". I think that she's right that the best results come from strategies that seem "organic, viral and uncommercial in nature". This is probably because fans feel as though their relationships with the author and publisher are more wholesome.
I thought that Rutherford's commentary on celebrity image was interesting. It was interesting to see how the media tries to portray Stephanie Meyer and also how she chose to portray herself separately from the Twilight Saga. Fans can see actual posts from Stephanie Meyer and follow Robert Pattinson on Twitter for an even closer experience to knowing some of the celebrities involved with Twilight. Although, this can also work against the author or celebrity. My roommate has a crush on Damon from the Vampire Diaries so she thought she would follow him Ian Somerhalder on Twitter. But, after she read some of his posts she was disappointed that he wasn't bad boy Damon, but a guy who saves puppies and loves the environment. She decided she didn't really want to get to know him. Hilarious, I know.
Fans have it pretty lucky; they are able to experience a whole other world separate from the texts or media they love. Blogs, forums, and websites are a great way to connect with other fans and share thousands of different experiences and opinions. It is also great for people who are unable to travel to see their favorite authors when they come for book tours or school visits, especially in Canada.
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