Friday, July 10, 2009

Going All The Way For Art



Things are tough all over, and the publishing business is no exception. These days most of us authors who aren't famous are scrambling. Writers who are published worry if they can sell another book. Writers trying to break into print for the first time are wondering if they haven't taken on mission impossible. The big publishers have had serious lay-offs. That means fewer editors and tighter budgets, and fewer books being bought. It's tough to stay positive, but I'm asking myself how much am I willing to suffer for my art? Rejection is a bitter pill to swallow and pity parties can get real crowded when a group of authors hit by harsh reality get together. Yet the other part of me says, "Hey, get over it! This is what you signed up for when you decided to become a writer." So to let's all buckle our seat belts, put our trays in the upright position and get through these bumpy times.

I'm going to keep writing no matter what. You with me? Yeah, now that's what I'm talkin' about- guts. Writing takes courage. Sending out even a query letter- yep, takes guts. It's no fun getting those "Sorry, we'll pass" letters. Okay. Eat some chocolate, run a few laps and get back to that keyboard.

These guys are willing to go out on a ledge for their art- makes me think: How far am I willing to go for my art?

2 comments:

bettye griffin said...

I had a story that didn't find a home at Harlequin, but the story wouldn't leave me alone, so I published it myself! That's case of putting my money where my mouth is, eh?

Lynn Emery said...

Sure is, Bettye. That's the kind of "Ain't no stoppin' me" spirit that authors need when the going gets tough. You joined a long and distinguished line of writers who got their stories out that way. Write on.