Pre-Slash?
Pre-slash seems to be the newest “genre” growing out there, and I have to admit, I do not know quite what to make of it. Generally, if there is a hint of underlying sexual attraction, the story falls into the category of what used to be known as UST, so why is that no longer adequate?
At least, in the case of UST, I can almost see the reasoning behind using the label of “pre-slash”. Recently, however, I have read several “pre-slash” stories which were basically “friendship gen” and nothing more. Intimate, friendship “gen” is often what I write - close, emotionally intimate relationships between friends. Bromance, as it were. What is wrong with the label “gen” or even “bromance” if someone wants in indicate there is a particular closeness between male characters? Why is “pre-slash” the suddenly so in vogue? I find it rather strange to have a piece of writing labeled based upon what will take place between the characters at some future time but isn’t actually included IN the story. . . I mean, what’s next? Stories labeled “pre-pregnant” or “pre-dead” or “pre-married”?
I suspect the reason behind this new trend is that so many readers have flat out stated they will not read anything which is labeled “gen” - so using “pre-slash” for such stories increased the likelihood of readership.
I suspect they may face a bit of a backlash, if their “pre-slash” turns out to be as sexually neutral as a traditional gen piece.