Hero Complex: 'Twilight' fans get emotional

Quite a few Hero Complex readers have more respect for the characters in the "Twilight" series than for the author who created them.  Author Stephenie Meyer has taken a lot of flack from fans for her decision to discontinue writing "Midnight Sun," "her planned retelling of 'Twilight' from the teenage vampire Edward's perspective," after a draft leaked on the Internet. Judging by the reader comments, it seems that the series must be especially popular among the preteen girl crowd.

puh shaw called Meyer "a frakkin' drama queen!!"

Brooke agreed: "i think she is being a little over dramatic. she needs to chill for a while, but get back to writing! she cant just say, sorry guys, my life is to depressing, im just not gonna do it."

Amirah had a creepy suggestion: "Can someone please call, email, stalk her and tell her she must write Midnight Sun...I think Im gonna cry, we just want to know what edward is thinking when he is in the Meadow with Bella and then when he stays at her house. I'm gonna cry!"

cat wrote: "Her temper tantrum doesn't make me sorry, it makes me think less of her. Fall Out Boy had a whole album released early on the net, did they throw a hissy fit and refuse to finish and release the album? No."

Hero Complex reported that it has been a rough year for Meyer, especially after the backlash to the final book in the "Twilight" series, "Breaking Dawn." The mere mention of this backlash caused Twilightfan's denial to kick in: "SHUT UP THEIR WAS NO BACKLASH ON BREAKING DAWN ! LA TIMES YOU CAN BE STUPID SOMETIMES ! AND YES I'M SAD BUT I HAVE FAITH STEPHENIE WILL WRITE IT EVENTUALLY JUST GIVE HER TIME AND REST !"

Many of the readers acted as if they knew Meyer personally, leaving the kinds of snotty comments usually reserved for schoolyard bullies. 

Steven wrote: "Stephenie is too full of herself."

jenn would make for a tough publisher: "what a big baby! she should grow up and do her job as a writer and write."

Melanie wrote: "Me=going through shock.*Cry*Come on, Stephenie, you can't do this to us! I apologize, but my opinion of you just dropped :(" 

But Desiree had a more intelligent tactic. Instead of insulting Meyer, she tried flattery: "I really don't believe she would start something and not finish it! I don't think she would really dissipoint her fans like that either! I LOVE ALL HER BOOKS!! Stephanie Meye is a wonderful writer! STEPHANIE WE ALL LOVE YOU!!! <3"

Smart move, Desiree. Want to weigh in? Share your thoughts here or in the original story. 

-- Amy Silverstein

Comments

[Emily]

Writing is a very hot and cold thing. It's a delicate impulse to write the things in your head down. Like, if you have an idea--a moment of genius--there's a good chance you'll forget it if you don't write it down right away. Similarly, if something about your writing hurts you personally (ie, it gets spoiled, or erased, or badly critiqued) it's extremely difficult to get back on that horse. It's almost like you have to force yourself, and you know what you write won't be as good, because your heart isn't in it. If Stephenie lost her will to finish Edward's story, I would understand. We fans have been mean to her lately, and she probably feels tired of defending herself. I recommend that you read what she's given us and enjoy it. And look forward to her future projects outside of the vampire world.

[Megan]

One of the things that makes the Twilight Saga so great has been the relationship that has grown between us readers and Stephenie Meyer, the author. We have all appreciated the updates, and the sneak peak quotes she's passed along, so I am surprised that people are reacting so much to her giving the fans what we've always wanted: her honest opinion. As an adult fan of this series, I will be very disappointed if Midnight Sun does not get published. I am respecting the wishes of the author and will not read the excerpt, hoping that one day the book will be finished. As far as the reaction to the back and forth of the fans and the small number of very loud and very negative critics that are out there, it is not surprising because a lot of the readership is teenagers, and flame wars are what happens on the Internet between these passionate groups. I am hoping that once the drama dies down and time has passed, the book will be written. Stephenie Meyer knows she has a very loyal following and we will be there in 1,2, or even 5 years down the road to hear Edward's side of the story. My wish is that everyone would take a deep breath, step away from the keyboard, and let some time pass.

[Irene]

I stayed away from it and now i am being punished, its not cool that Stephanie is punishing hte fans that actually respected her process and steered clear of the leaked manuscript, but i love her for creating the twilight universe in the first place.

[Amy]

The chat rooms are FULL of people desperately hoping she will finish it. Many fans are saying it is her best work ever, which is saying a lot! I think we all feel terrible for Stephenie - feeling that her hand was forced - and we hope she finds peace and healing. We also hope she finishes it, for herself, on her own terms, but certainly at the benefit of all of us who are anxiously awaiting. The media, publishing companies and Stephenie herself shouldn't underestimate how much we want this book! Even if the entire unfinshed draft ended up posted online, we'd still stand in line to buy it! There are a number of online petitions. One called "Save Midnight Sun" has over 5,000 signatures, and can be found here
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/savemidnightsun/index.html

Eternally Hopeful,
Amy (age 34)

[Lianna]

I think Stephenie has every right to do with her work what she wants. I can't imagine how it feels to have something so unjustly stolen from you, and something so close to your heart. Think about it guys, if we're upset about Edward not having his say, imagine how she feels. She created Edward and Bella.
If you truly think Stephenie is having a temper tantrum, don't retaliate by throwing a temper tantrum as well.
Stephenie is closests to the series, she knows what's best for it.

[Tanya]

I do not like the ‘emotional’ label from the Times. Many of us who are saddened by this are not teenage girls but grown women with an appreciation for what was developing into a first-rate book that would add to a series that has reminded many of us about the importance of love in our lives. Also, I know Stephenie said “indefinitely,” but I am hopeful that she will take some time off and then get back to it. Her wonderful story and characters deserve it even more than her fans.

[stacia]

My heart goes out to Stephanie and I feel bed for her. However I am sad that she has decided put MIdnight Sun on hold. I say this because in my head when I finished Breaking Dawn I wasn't as upset because I knew there was this book coming out at some point. I am also thankful to Stephanie for puting out the draft so I could be honest and look at it with her permisson. I only wish that she would one day in the future to find it in her heart to come back and finish Edward's story of his love for Bella.

[Emily Pruitt]

I think that this turn of events is disappointing. I can understand how deeply dashed expectations can hurt a person; when things do not follow through as planned it is a humbling and frustrating time. Anyone can sympathize with that. I do, however, see her decision to put off Midnight Sun indefinitely as rash because it is not helping anyone and only hurting her true fans who are dying to see it along side the other four beautiful novels. However to say that this all could stem from a fear that this book won't sell as many copies because of the leak is ludicrous. You only need to check the news bulletin on Twilight Lexicon and the 700 plus posts (that appeared in only a few hours) responding to the news of MS that are begging Stephenie to finish her draft and/or supporting her regardless. She has an enormous and enormously dedicated fan base. As one of the many, I can attest that we will wait and support her in anyway necessary until she hopefully feels able to finish channelling Edward's voice and publish Midnight Sun. I would hope that all the endeavors to show our support, that will be happening over the next few weeks, will be profound enough to prove to Stephenie that her fans are unlike any other. And as much as we have loved the Twilight Universe, above all we appreciate her for creating it. While the leak is a disheartening thing to be sure, she has the power to rise above it all, by pushing all the negative out of her world and finishing what she has started. I hope in the coming weeks she can see that and make the right decision.

[Sarah]

No one has the right to judge Stephenie Meyer's decision to stop writing Midnight Sun. Yes we are disappointed that it will not be released, but if it were me in her situation I would be disheartened as well. She has worked very very hard and has always been true to herself. And now the same fans that once praised her for that are turning against her for the same reason. Just because they aren't getting what THEY want. Grow up and focus on issues that really matter instead of yourselves. And remember kids...If you can't say something nice don't say anything at all.

[rebecca]

I believe that Stephenie has had a big loss. This series is more than just some books to her; they're her characters, her creations. When you feel that someone has violated your personal, private world, you are bound to react. I support her and respect her and just hope that after much time and thinking she will choose to add Midnight Sun to hers and many fans collections.

[Lori]

I hate to be a big Bee with an Itch here, but I most certainly don't believe that INSULTING the author who holds the future of your favorite books is the best option here. I'm not saying we should worship the ground at her feet, or just keep "sucking-up" as some have said. But I do feel SUPPORT is what you need best. I can't say from experience of writing a book, but I do know that if someone takes what is not theirs, ruins it for others, and then goes off like nothing happened can be heart breaking. This is her CAREER, this is what she strives for, and someone kind of took that away. It's sad, I know, but it's like grieving, you have to go through it, and in the end you come out stronger, or you let it fall and focus not on the past but the future, the moment, but it's not other's choices which you do. This isn't a "little blow" like when people posted Breaking Dawn's first chapter, or leaked spoilers on the internet (which were still horrible and selfish, if people want to know, it's called Personal E-mails), this is half of a BOOK on the internet, this is HUGE. And, if I'm understanding correctly, the copy was given to a close friend. Imagine how that alone would have effected her.

In other words, give it time, there are other books, there are other things to do. I'm not saying "Oh forget about Meyer, she SUCKS" I mean, whether or not she continues with Midnight Sun, the series ends somewhere, and it's alot to deal with right now, so space is defiantly what she needs, and negative response on something that is already heart breaking is not doing justice.

Much love and consideration
--Lori

[Heather]

Being a writer is difficult!! For those of you who are saying, "She's being a baby!" or "Suck it up!" How would you feel if someone you trusted betrayed your trust by posting diary or journal enteries. Wouldn't you be devastated!! This is the same thing- she has pored her heart into her work lets give her a break. She didnt say that she will NEVER write it she just said to let her feel good about writting it again. Let her have time with her family and allow her to recharge. Lets be mature about this and not do any name calling. Remember that she is a PERSON and has feelings!
Stephanie you deserve a break- your TRUE fans will still be here whenever your ready!!!!!

[Varsha]

"Overdramatic"?

"Temper Tantrum"?

Everybody is passionate about something-- whether it be a sport, a band, or even WRITING, it shouldn't be criticized. Why is Stephenie Meyer being so "overdramatic"? Honestly, it doesn't seem overdramatic when you take into consideration how much Stephenie cares for these books.

And that's why Stephenie is defending "Midnight Sun"-- because she CARES about the book, and she CARES that we, as readers, have a spoiler-free reading experiences despite the temptation to spoil ourselves with internet leaks.

If anything, this made me think so much more of Stephenie Meyer. That despite all the criticizing and hurtful comments, she is STILL able to believe in and put her whole heart into her writing because it's her passion, and I think that anyone would be hurt if a part of their dream was shattered.

Stephenie has put forth so much TIME and EFFORT to make sure we could enjoy the "Twilight Saga", including touring, so it would make sense that she would miss her family and friends. It's been a crazy year for her, so I would understand if she was sad about it.

It all comes down to: It all started with STEPHENIE'S dream, "Twilight". So IT'S HER CHOICE on whether or not she wants to continue "Midnight Sun", because while she shares the stories with us generously, it's her own heart she pours into writing. So, that's it. It's her choice.

Let the haters hate, and let the fans show our invincible, ultimate dedication and support.

Because we're the Twilight fandom, and we ROCK.

Rock on, Stephenie, we love you.

[Amy]

I think Stephenie is within her right to do this and frankly, I do not believe that she is being a "drama queen" or over reacting. She needs a break and time to herself and as soon as she gets it, this happens. It hurts. She is hurting because someone she trusted betrayed her trust. That's the biggest issue in my eyes at this point.

I do have a feeling she will continue to write it in the future and if anything she does not owe us fans anything. We are lucky enough that she decided to share this world with us as it is.

[Morgan]

Wow. Seriously, I believe that people who want their opinions respected should abstain from sounding like little whiny adolescents.

My initial reaction was one of extreme disappointment, and yes, this was not only over the news, but with Stephenie herself. I agree that an author has a greater responsibility to their craft than to give up on a project entirely when something as common as a leak happens. I understand that she is extremely upset over the backlash of BD, and the events that have soured this summer for her. In fact, I completely understand her desire to abandon MS for the foreseeable future.

But to say that it is abandoned indefinitely is unfair to the innocent fans out there who want this book, and unfair to herself. After all, she had a reason for writing this story in the first place, I hate to think that she's so unenthusiastic about this story that she would give it up so easily.

In the end, however, I really don't care. It's not as if the story is that necessary. Simply reading the available chapters is enough to give one a general idea of what was happening to Edward during their first encounter. I had wondered from the beginning if I would really be interested in reading the same story all over again, even if it was from another perspective. Would there even be a climax when we already know the ending? How would she have pulled it off in the long run anyhow?

I would have liked her to abandon the story for a better reason if she had to do so, or at least if she wasn't enthusiastic about it anymore, say that she was putting it back in the 'non-priority' pile that it started in. To be perfectly honest, I call shenanigans. I think it's a pie-crust promise anyhow.

[Aimee]

The bottom line comes to this: the first 12 chapters of Midnight Sun were leaked illegally, and because that happened, Stephanie Meyer felt hurt and betrayed.. That is why she wrote the letter on her website so her fans could read and understand what she's going through. Most of her fans (including me) support her decision to hold off on writing Midnight Sun indefinitely, but we are also sad that it had to come to this. We all knew that there wasn't a deadline on Midnight Sun, so we're all just hoping that she DOES write it completely. That's not going to happen until Stephanie is ready to sit down and start writing it again.

[Katie Beth]

I haven't read all the comments so I'm probably not the first one to say this, but Stephenie never said she was going to "discontinue" Midnight Sun. She simply said that it is "on hold indefinitely". Big difference. :-) I think she'll pick it back up eventually, especially after she sees how many people still want it.

[Tiger Lily]

I loved reading the portion that SM posted on her site. It was beautiful, and I really feel like I know Edward better now. Though I dont feel like his story is complete, almost like he's not getting his happy ending. Maybe if she had gotten to the medow scean, it just seems he suffers so much, he deserves happiness. I really hope she continues, but I'll understand if she doesn't. No one can say her reactions are invalid or dramatized, because none of us have ever experienced being violated the way she has. She is a wonderful, creative and talented writer and I truely hope she will finish Midnight sun, but people need to be more understanding and less judgemental. Its hard for us all but, remember that she was the true victim here.

[Julie]

I am utterly confused by the reaction of some of the Twilighters. Name calling and getting angry doesn't solve anything. Stephenie is wounded, and honestly who wouldn't be, imagine your very private journal got taken and posted all over facebook, how would you feel? It really is no different with Stephenie's manuscript of Midnight Sun. Us Twilighter's know how passionate she is about her characters, they are as real as you or me, when she is in the writing process. When Midnight Sun leaked Stephenie had a choice to make, one that I am sure was very difficult. I feel that Stephenie chose the option that she as a human being was able to live with. I feel sad for both Stephenie and the Twilight Universe. She is obviously very hurt from the Midnight Sun Manuscript Leak, and as a result the Twilight Universe may never see the completed, published copy of MIdnight Sun.

Stephenie if you stumble upon this, I hope you know that WE Support YOU! and can't thank you enough for the incredible world you have already given us! I hope that with time you will be able to continue with Edward's Story.

[Aurinko]

I can't believe there are people who are angry at Stephenie, because of this. Be angry at the person who had Stephenie's trust and got his/her hands on Midnight Sun and then leaked it to internet. Who's that stupid anyway?

I'm really sorry if Stephenie doesn't continue writing MS, but it's her choice, her book. And wheter or not some people read it before hand, every single one of Stephanie true fans - and there's a lot of us, even here in Finland - will buy the book and enjoy it. I mean... It's Edward we're talking about here.

[The Taminator]

Meyer might as well have said "Let them eat cake." If people can't see this for the slap in the face that it is, they deserve to have this mediocre author walk all over them.

[Lauren]

Since Stephenie gave us the go ahead to read her partial draft, I did and its AMAZING! Even with it unedited, it's just great. I think I might like Edwards POV more than Bella's. I'm willing to go that far and say that. It's just wonderful and it will be such a waste not be able to read the rest of Edward's side of the story. I hope Stephenie gets past this and finds the desire to continue writing it. It will really upset me and I'm sure many other fans if she doesnt finish it. Again, it's just a GREAT book, just like all her other ones.

[Monika]

Is Stephenie Meyer going to have any fans left after this? She is throwing a pre-madonna hissy fit over a leak that none of her fans were responsible for, and yet she insists on punishng them! She should buck up, hire a lawyer, go after the responsible party, and finish Midnight Sun to be released next year...making her five million dollars. Everyone would get what they want! Instead, she is acting like a spoiled little child not getting first turn on the swing; punishing those who stuck by her after Breaking Dawn! I know she has lost fans over her reaction to the leak. I'm still debating if I am one of them.

[Music0081]

Who are we to judge?

That is my question. These books have been a gift. I don't know about you, but they have certainly changed my life. How can we sit here and allow Stephenie to be destroyed because of someone else's misguided mistakes?

Personally, I will stand behind her and her decision. She never HAD to write these books... but she did. She shared with us. Can't we, for once, rally behind her and try to give back just a small part of what she's given us?

Thank you Mrs. Meyer. Because of you I have a new outlook on life and I don't take things for granted as quickly as I used to.

You will never know how much I appreciate what you have done.

[Amirah]

When I commented on possibly contacting Meyer, I did not mean for fans to literally stalk her, I would never condone such an act. I merely want to get word to her some way and let her know that she has disappointed millions of people. When visiting the author's website there is no contact information. How can we get the word out that she should write Midnight Sun?