Is there anything wrong with writing Mary-Sues?

In my opinion, not really. There is however, something wrong with posting them on the Internet and expecting no flames. Unrealistic, really.

For the uninitiated, a Mary-Sue is a story/fanfiction where an Original Character (as to how "original" he/she is, is another story) is introduced. The Mary-Sue in question usually is well-liked or wins over everyone, and has the main character falling desperately in love with him/her. Usually has tragic past.

These stories are also often occompanied by events out of canon, Unlikely behaviour in characters (think Ash from Pokemon suddenly going all girly and SNAG-like) and just plain nonsense.

That said, I do indulge in writing Mary-Sues once in a while. It can be good therapy - one starts scribbling unspoken wishes and thoughts, and there is always the occasional good idea to use in another piece. I just don't post them.

I once read something that proudly proclaimed itself to be a Mary-Sue - and turned out to be a most enjoyable ride. Yes, there was the Original Character, and the main char in the story fell for her, but it somehow wasn't annoying. The writing was fantastic, and it wasn't one of those love-at-first-sight or hate-at first-sight-turned-to-love-later. It was, persay... realistic? Ironic, considering it was a fanfiction for a comic.

Mary-Sues can be vastly annoying... but you can tell a lot about the writer from it.

And you don't have to read them, you know.

Itchy.