Back story

A Back story is a fictional article which explains the model or idea in question. While not essential to whiffing, the Back story is definitely an integral part of the genre. The story can be as long or as short as one wishes, and usually presents some sort of history which attempts to rationalize the concept. Some long and detailed stories will explain the entire history of a fictional nation, or the development of a What If? model. Some back stories, when coupled with naivete, ignorance, or drunkenness on the part of the reader, have led to some people believing that the story is true. If the reader makes their belief known the originator of the story often has a Whiffgasm as a result, and protocol demands that the event must be immediately posted for the amusement and admiration of fellow Whiffers.