While many have embraced the expression, especially after the blockbuster release ‘Spider Man: Across The Spider Verse’, the term has sent many Googling to know what it means. Saying ‘it’s a canon event’ has actually begun to comfort people instead of cringing over any embarrassing action.
In case you are still unversed with a ‘canon event’, here is an example for you to understand better: "My friend's staying up to talk to her situationship. She say he isn't serious but I can't interfere, it's a canon event"
Clear yet?
Okay, let’s define a canon event:
It is something that has to happen in your life’s story plot to define your character. This has ties to anime and superhero action movies but has become popular after the latest Spider-Man movie’s success. Such pivotal events in the Spider-verse may include the spider-bite, Uncle Ben dying, and so on.
You get the idea — it’s an inevitable intersection in time that gets the character where they are today. Thus, such an event might not be the most fun or comfortable but it has to happen for your growth. Just like the age old saying ‘everything happens for a reason’.
‘Canon Event’ Etymology
The concept of "canon" and "canon events" is documented to have originated in the field of literature, particularly within religious contexts. The term "canon" comes from the Greek word "kanon", meaning "rule" or "measuring rod". It was used to refer to an authoritative list or collection of sacred texts or scriptures.
However, the popularisation of the term "canon event" in the context of fictional universes and narratives can be attributed to science fiction and fantasy fandoms. These fandoms, with their passionate engagement and analysis of various media franchises, popularised the idea of determining what events and stories were considered official and part of the established continuity.
The term "canon" gained significant traction within the Star Trek fandom in the 1970s. As the franchise expanded across different media, fans and creators began discussing and debating which events, episodes, and films were considered "canon" within the Star Trek universe.
Since then, the concept of canon events has been widely adopted and applied to various other franchises and fictional universes, including but not limited to Star Wars, Marvel and DC Comics, Harry Potter, and many others. The idea of canon events has become a fundamental aspect of fan discussions, analysis, and the overall understanding of fictional narratives.
A ‘canon event’ refers to an occurrence or incident within a fictional universe that is officially recognised as part of the established continuity or storyline. In books, movies, TV shows, video games, and comic books, canon events are the events that are considered official and contribute to the overall narrative and history of the fictional world.
The concept of canon helps to maintain consistency and coherence within a fictional universe by establishing a set of rules and guidelines that creators and fans adhere to. Canon events are typically created by the original creators or authorised individuals responsible for the development and maintenance of the fictional universe. These events are often regarded as official and have a direct impact on the ongoing narrative and the development of characters and their relationships.
Canon events are distinguished from non-canon or "alternative" events, which may exist in the form of spin-offs, fan fiction, unofficial adaptations, or speculative stories that do not align with the established continuity. Non-canon events may be enjoyable for fans but are not considered official or binding within the established storyline.
Why Is It Viral On Social Media Now?
People have made it a trend wherein they address embarrassing, cringe, traumatic behaviour or events. They add that they can’t intervene because, you guessed it right — it’s a ‘canon event’. Everyone, especially in adolescence, must experience it and learn. Selfies with cap covering our faces to look mysterious, fluorescent makeup, going feral after a break-up — who hasn't done these quirky things? Majority of the trends have to do with coming of age as that is when we are most conscious of ourselves.
You are the main character of your story, every unpleasant occurence is a mere canon event. All for your plot!