RetCon, what is it good for?

What is Retroactive Continuity? Retroactive continuity (often called retcon) is a storytelling device used in fiction when authors or creators deliberately change, add to, or contradict facts that were previously established in a story’s “official past.” In essence, the story’s “history” gets rewritten, sometimes subtly and sometimes quite dramatically. (Wikipedia) According to one definition: “Retroactive continuity is a literary device in which previously established information in a work of fiction is changed, ignored, or contradicted to suit the current story.” (TCK Publishing) The motivations for retconning can vary: To correct continuity errors or inconsistencies that arose in earlier installments. (Wikipedia) To expand or deepen a story by adding new layers—backstories, motivations, relationships—that simply weren’t there before. (Language & Humanities) To reboot or reimagine a story, more in line with new creative direction, audience expectations, or modern sensibilities. (Language & Humanities) To revive characters (e.g., bring back a “dead” character) or reset aspects of the fictional universe to allow new plots. (Wikipedia) In long-running franchises — comics, film series, TV shows — retcons are especially common because over time, multiple writers or creators may contribute, or earlier plot points simply don’t hold up to new storytelling ambitions. (FourWeekMBA) Read more on the blog