Here on the cusp of 2011, these words from a literary agent with whom I spoke several months ago come to mind: “The pitch sounds intriguing, but it’s all about the writing.”
There is no substitute for beautiful writing born of astute observations of the human condition and translated to the page with the deft stroke of an artist. You have to pay your dues, in any industry or creative pursuit, if you want lasting success. The axiom that you have to write 10,000 words in order to write well may be true.
Selling a manuscript has become much more competitive because of consolidation in the publishing industry and changes to the way readers buy books. People still can spend hours browsing in a bookstore if they wish, or they can browse and download to an e-reader in seconds. If the writing doesn’t intrigue and captivate, the reader may select something else or not buy at all.
For those who want to build a career in any economy, in any industry, including publishing, excellence has the best chance of success. Going forward into the New Year, I’ll be doing what I need to do to market myself, but my primary goal is to focus on Job One: the writing.
Happy New Year and Happy Writing,
Jule
Happy New Year Jule. Yes! It's all about the writing--- But also the marketing to get the book sold. A fine line and "the" ultimate challenge to do it all. When we can figure it out, and find time to sleep too-- then we'll have found the answer to success.
ReplyDelete'Excellence has the best chance of success,' I like that! Well said Jule. We must always seek to improve.
ReplyDeleteIt's amazing how much we can continue to learn and improve our writing, even if we've been working at it for years! Well worth the effort, for sure.
ReplyDeleteKarlene, thanks for presenting a different view. Doing it all is a challenge, that's for sure, and so I choose to prioritize the writing. I don't believe marketing will help much if the product - the manuscript - isn't excellent. I appreciate your thoughts!
ReplyDeleteHeather, thanks for your comment. I know you are always focused on improving - even though you already are an excellent writer!
ReplyDeleteLinda, like you, I'm convinced writing is a lifelong learning opportunity. Thanks for your comment.
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