Pronunciation: [fˈanziːnz] (IPA) 
The word "fanzines" is spelled with a "z" instead of an "s" because it is a combination of "fan" and "magazines." The sound "z" is the voiced consonant sound, while "s" is the voiceless consonant sound. The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription for "fanzines" is /ˈfæn.ziːnz/, with the stress on the first syllable. This indicates that the "z" is pronounced as [z], not [s], and the "i" sounds like [iː], as in "meet."
Fanzines, short for "fan magazines," refer to non-professional publications made by fans of various forms of art, entertainment, or cultural phenomena. Generally self-published and typically with a limited print run, fanzines serve as an outlet for enthusiasts to express their passion, share information, and connect with other like-minded individuals.
Fanzines can cover a wide range of subjects, including music, movies, literature, comics, gaming, science fiction, and subcultures such as punk or goth. These publications often showcase vibrant and creative content, featuring reviews, interviews, artwork, short stories, poetry, essays, and fan fiction. Fanzines are characterized by their independent, do-it-yourself spirit, allowing fans to voice their opinions or perspectives outside the constraints of mainstream media.
Historically, fanzines flourished in the pre-internet era when enthusiasts relied on mail exchanges, conventions, or local gatherings to distribute and access these publications. However, the rise of digital platforms has led to the emergence of online fanzines, called webzines or e-zines, allowing broader distribution and accessibility across the globe.
Fanzines play a significant role in fostering fan communities, connecting people who may otherwise remain isolated and providing an alternative to traditional media channels. They allow fans to explore niche interests, celebrate underground movements, and engage in active participation with their preferred fandoms, often influencing and shaping the overall culture surrounding them.
The word "fanzine" is a portmanteau of "fan" and "magazine". It was first coined in the 1940s to describe self-published magazines or periodicals created by science fiction fans. These fans, often devoted readers of the genre, would create and distribute these amateur publications to share their thoughts, reviews, and creative works related to science fiction literature and other related media. Over time, the term "fanzine" expanded beyond science fiction and came to encompass various fan-created magazines across different fandoms and interests.
