In fact, to me, nfic is a rating system. Why? Because the only thing that makes a fic "n" is adult content rigidly defined (i.e. whatever makes it unacceptable for the lighter side of the boards).
The description of gfic as 'lighter' troubles me somewhat. To tell the truth, most nfic strikes me as light - frivolous. This is not a negative criticism btw - just my perception that most nfic is fluffy distraction, whether it's erotic or not.
Those nfic interlude bits that are added into gfics have rarely added anything 'dark' - unless it's a graphic rape scene or worse.
Some of the most "adult" stories in our fandom haven't been nfics.
in my opinion.
c.
