"Backstory" - where has that suddenly sprung from?

[said]

I've just used it myself on here but have noticed it everywhere in the last few months. I like it but why has it suddenly replaced "history"

[lou031205]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Back-story It isn't history, it is the 'background story'.

[Besom]

It think it has a wider definition than just 'history' because it means 'the story behind the story' which can be current and ongoing iyswim.

We are all more aware of 'backstories' to items in the media now because of the internet and wider access to information. You can research the backstory to something or someone that interests you. I wonder if this is why it's being used so often now?

It seems an appropriate word for mumsnet, anyway! I love a good back story.

[Pyrocanthus]

It comes originally from film I think. Characters have back stories which explain how they've got to the point at which the action starts, even if they're not referred to in the screenplay.

[said]

All intersting - thanks