Perzine

A perzine, short for "personal zine," is a type of zine that focuses heavily on the personal experiences, thoughts, and feelings of its creator. Unlike other zines that may explore broader topics, politics, or art, perzines are characterized by their intensely subjective and autobiographical nature. They often explore themes of identity, relationships, mental health, everyday life, and personal growth.

Perzines are typically produced on a small scale and distributed within niche communities. The creator is often the sole contributor, handling writing, illustration, layout, and distribution. The DIY (Do-It-Yourself) ethos is central to the perzine tradition, emphasizing accessibility and unmediated expression over professional production quality.

The content of a perzine is usually highly intimate and can range from raw and vulnerable to humorous and observational. Because they are personal narratives, perzines offer a unique perspective on the world through the lens of individual experience. They often serve as a form of self-exploration and connection for both the creator and the reader. While not necessarily intended for a wide audience, perzines have contributed significantly to the development of zine culture and independent publishing.