Happy IWSG Day!
I've actually had a pretty good April. But of course, things happen. Still, we carry on and deal with it all, including: a couple of minor accidents, a major setback for one son, and some unexpected travel. It's all working out. And I'm even getting some writing done on my two projects. It feels great to be writing again!
"The best quality books are not the ones that typically sell.
The most talented writers are not always well known.
The worthiest information rarely spreads the farthest.
Or: The cream does not necessarily rise to the top.
This is a message I repeat across my classes and writings, not to discourage people, but to reassure. It applies to matters great and small.
It took me months of intensive research to find accurate information on a health issue. I spent seven years looking for political reporting that made sense to me. And it took a decade to uncover good curly hair products.
In so many cases, whatever I’m looking for has been around for years. But it’s almost never the first answer, source, or solution I’m presented with."
The End. No solution or advice on how to change this despairing scenario. No "but carry on and persevere and eventually you'll get noticed..." Nothing more.
This was the opening note in a newsletter I subscribe to by a long-time writer I have followed for many years. She lives near me, and I got a chance to meet her a couple of years ago. Usually her newsletter is full of wisdom and notices of events and promotions for writing bloggers. But this was so disappointing--especially because it's true! And I really felt the sting of it now that I'm starting over, more like clawing my way back, trying to get a publisher. Which I apparently need since I wasn't able to get a table at my go-to book fair this year, even with a shiny new book--because it was self-pub.
Maybe she was having a bad week. I won't stop following her because I've been there too.
What do you all think?
How was your April?
Am I taking this piece too much to heart?
And I'd love to hear how you feel about publishing these days...?
Thanks for stopping by!
BTW - Our Next Chat is Tuesday May 7 - tell me in the comments if you'd like the link!
6 comments:
It is depressing but it's reality.
Sorry you couldn't get a table at that book fair.
I'm so glad that despite the major and minor setbacks (hope everyone is okay!) you've had lately, that you've been able to get some writing done & that it's feeling great to be writing again!
These days, I rarely feel anything but invisible and/or not worth responding to. I don't have any solutions for this, though. I'm just going to keep doing the best I can for as long as I can.
Hi, Tara! I have times when I feel invisible, and it's more frequent as I get older. I fight back by speaking to others who may feel invisible. It's amazing how even a simple smile can light up another person's face. I think we've all been where your long-term writer is. That's where you do have to persevere and carry on. I'm happy to hear that you are writing again. Wishing you lots of fulfillment in May!
Reality can be so depressing sometimes, but I'm a firm believer that it's better to acknowledge that. I find it helps me more than just putting a smile and declaring everything will turn out all right. Sometimes I just need to throw a damn pity party. I'll pick myself up shortly.
It's a tough business and I wish I had a magic formula to share with everyone...including myself. Here's to staying the course and enjoying the ride.
https://substack.com/@cleemckenzie
Hi Tara - life is tough ... it's making sure we're moving along - sounds like you are - this group is wonderfully supportive - cheers for now - Hilary
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