Uncategorized

#IWSG Plentiful Publication Pitfalls

jenlanebooks

Happy August, writers! Join the Insecure Writer’s Support Group at Alex Cavanaugh’s blog.

Thank you to this month’s courageous co-hosts:

I love this month’s question: What pitfalls would you warn other writers to avoid on their publication journey?

I’ve faced publication pitfalls galore so I hope that sharing them will help newbie authors avoid them. Here are beliefs that put the pain in publishing:

1) “I’ve got this writing thing.” I thought my debut novel was well-written. It wasn’t. WRITING IS A CRAFT. It takes years of developing the craft even to knock on the door of good writing. I feel more confident in my day job after over twenty years of experience, so why did I think I was competent at writing after only a few fledgling years of fan fiction? Fortunately I had the opportunity to re-edit my debut novel seven years later, so at least now I can read it without cringing.

2) “My book should hit the shelves soon.” I pride myself in finishing tasks efficiently and often feel impatient when others don’t do the same. The fact is that publishing is full of excruciating waits. Waiting for…responses to queries, publication contracts, multiple rounds of editing (fortunately my editor is super speedy–love her!), proofreading, cover design, book design, marketing materials, marketing assistants…and that’s before the book is even released. Not to mention it’s rare (and often requires years of persistence) to publish with a large publisher who gets your book on shelves.

3) “It’s clear when a book is good or bad.” Reading is so subjective! What one reader loves, another hates. Regarding one of my brash heroes, one reviewer said, “Where can I get a Dane in my life?” whereas another said, “Dane is the WORST hero I have ever read about.” I felt proud of the writing in my latest release–too bad it has been my worst seller. Considering the subjectivity and flooded market, we need to write the stories in our hearts instead of wondering what readers will like or buy.

One common thread through all of my pitfalls is expectations. I wish I could quiet my planner brain and live more in the present. I don’t know much about Buddhism, but one friend described it as “letting go of expectations”. Sounds like a good way to live and write.

Published by jenlanebooks

16 thoughts on “#IWSG Plentiful Publication Pitfalls”

  5. I need to quiet my brain as well. I've actually tried meditation and it has helped me some. But I'm right there with you on the expectations and planning. Thanks for sharing your experiences.

    Like

    Reply

  9. I love this thought: \”I wish I could quiet my planner brain and live more in the present.\” It's so true. Patience is not my strength but your post really helps me see how much patience I really need. 🙂

    Like

    Reply

  11. Good points, all. I've got one of those \”planner brains\” and it really is difficult to let go of expectations. I am always expecting progress and not always getting it. 🙂

    Like

    Reply

  16. So true–I think we all have our personal expectations that often lead to disappointments. I'm not sure how to shake them since I think it's only natural for any of us to visualize what we might expect or hope for in any outcome. It's part of looking forward. If we can look forward with a realistic sense of things then that can make a difference. Also if we don't learn from our pasts then we probably just keep on having unrealistic expectations. All easier said than done.Arlee BirdTossing It Out

    Like

    Reply

Leave a comment