Why New Age Star Wars Fans Bash on the Expanded Universe: Debunking Common Myths

Often, discussions around Star Wars veer into intense debates about the Expanded Universe (EU) or Legends. A common narrative among new-age fans is that they bash the EU out of jealousy or because they feel left behind in the vast canon of novels, comics, and video games. This article aims to examine the reasons behind such bashing and separate fact from fiction.

Heir to the Empire: A Cultural Phenomenon

One of the most notable works in Star Wars Legends is Heir to the Empire, a book that often stands as a critical touchstone for fans of the EU. It features an intriguing subplot involving lizards and the Force, suggesting an unwelcoming environment for certain species. This has led to some humorous interpretations, with the Force being portrayed as ‘really fucking hates iguanas’ in certain fan discussions.

Personal Reflections and Views on the EU

As someone who grew up with Star Wars and only appreciated media beyond the films, I have mixed feelings about the EU. My own experience with the EU involved reading over a hundred books, a task that provided both entertainment and occasional excitement.

However, I must admit that the EU suffered from a lack of coherent vision and less stringent quality control among its contributors. This inconsistency often made it challenging to maintain a sense of continuity and thematic cohesiveness throughout the expanded canon. That being said, there were undoubtedly some exceptional works that stood the test of time and resonated with readers.

Jealousy or Interest in Different Perspectives?

Now, do new-age Star Wars fans bash the EU due to jealousy, especially those who are behind on all the EU information? The answer lies more in opinion and perspective than in a sense of jealousy.

Many new fans of the franchise are simply interested in the core films and their immediate sequels or prequels. They may not be ‘behind’ on the EU in the way that older fans might assume, but rather focused on different narratives and stories that align with their own preferences and interests. That said, not everyone who criticizes the EU does so out of jealousy or a feeling of being left behind.

Reality vs. Canon: Setting the Records Straight

It’s important to address the assertion that people can be jealous of the EU information. Firstly, Star Wars is a fictional universe, and everything in it, whether canon or part of the EU, exists within that narrative. The EU itself is not real; it was a creative effort by a community of writers to fill in the gaps and explore the lore within the Star Wars universe. Therefore, there is no basis for jealousy about something that was never meant to be part of the official canon.

Additionally, Lucasfilm themselves did not consider the EU to be official canon for a long time. Any criticism of the EU as garbage or low-quality content, while it may reflect a personal opinion, does not constitute bashing in the classical sense. Critics who highlight inconsistencies or low-quality works within the EU are simply providing honest feedback based on their own preferences and experiences, not seeking to posture as new fans who feel left out.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the debate surrounding whether new-age Star Wars fans bash the Expanded Universe often oversimplifies a complex array of personal interests and perspectives. While arguments about the quality of the EU are valid and have merit, they do not necessarily stem from jealousy or a sense of losing up-to-date information. It’s important to recognize that each fan has their own path, and their interest in certain aspects of the Star Wars universe is a personal journey rather than a competition or a source of envy.

Ultimately, the Star Wars universe, whether through the Canon or the Legends, remains a vast and ever-evolving tapestry of stories, characters, and worlds. Each fan has their own stories to tell, and their perspectives contribute to the rich cultural legacy of the franchise. So, let’s celebrate these differences and focus on what truly matters: the shared love for a universe that continues to inspire and captivate us all.