Exploring the 'Shen Yuan is Shen Jiu's Child' Trope on AO3

22 Aug 2024

SVSSS: Chapter 74 (2) by Vialir on @DeviantArt Chinese Cartoon, Bad

The world of fan fiction thrives on taking existing narratives and spinning them in entirely new and unexpected directions. One such intriguing twist plays out within the "Scum Villain's Self-Saving System" (SVSSS) fandom, where a particular trope has captured the imaginations of many: "Shen Yuan is Shen Jiu's Child." This exploration delves into the origins, interpretations, and appeal of this unique concept within the expansive landscape of SVSSS fan works on Archive of Our Own (AO3).

For those unfamiliar with the source material, "Scum Villain's Self-Saving System," a Chinese web novel by MXTX, follows the story of Shen Yuan, a reader who gets transported into a cultivation novel as Shen Qingqiu, the reviled teacher of the protagonist, Luo Binghe. Knowing Shen Qingqiu's destined fate, Shen Yuan attempts to navigate the story and change his pre-determined demise. This intricate web of transmigration, cultivation, and complex character relationships provides fertile ground for fan interpretations, and the "Shen Yuan is Shen Jiu's Child" trope is a prime example.

The very nature of this trope introduces a fascinating paradox and a significant departure from the original narrative. Shen Yuan, a man from the modern world, becoming the son of Shen Jiu (Shen Qingqiu's original identity) creates a temporal loop that adds layers of complexity to the already intricate story. It prompts questions about how this connection might manifest, what impact it would have on Shen Jiu's character and actions, and how it would ultimately affect Luo Binghe's trajectory.

The appeal of this trope lies in its potential for exploring a vast range of themes and dynamics. Some interpretations focus on the heartwarming aspects of a found family, with Shen Jiu, despite his flaws, finding redemption and love in caring for his unexpected son. Others delve into the angst and emotional turmoil that such a revelation would bring, particularly for Shen Qingqiu, who would have to reconcile his past life with this newfound knowledge.

Beyond the emotional core, the trope also opens doors for exploring political intrigue within the cultivation world, shifting power dynamics, and exploring the very nature of destiny and free will. Would Shen Yuan's presence alter the course of events or would fate find a way to reassert itself? This open-ended nature is part of what makes the "Shen Yuan is Shen Jiu's Child" trope such a compelling concept within the SVSSS fandom on AO3.

While it's challenging to quantify the exact prevalence of this trope within the vast sea of SVSSS fan works, a simple search on AO3 using keywords like "Shen Yuan is Shen Jiu's child," "Shen Yuan son of Shen Jiu," or related phrases will unveil a wealth of stories exploring this intriguing dynamic. From short one-shots to multi-chapter epics, the trope has clearly captured the imagination of many talented writers, each offering their own unique take on this fascinating "what if?" scenario.