Advice to Would-Be Writers: Get Real

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I was invited, or should probably say, had the opportunity, to speak and sign books and schmooze at a local authors' event this morning.  It was at the local library.  I wore myself out with it.  I spoke for a few minutes and this is my text.  I really stand by these ideas.  Of course, no one but the librarian heard, but as a college professor I am used to speaking and no one listening. 

1.  You must read.  You must be familiar with the look of words on a page, the sound of them. You must know what other people are writing. If you say you want to write but don’t like to read, you’ll have two problems:  you won’t know good writing, and you won’t reciprocate with others whose writing you need to critique as well.

2.     You must write what you know but that is not the end of it.  You must do research.

3.     You must be around people who will be honest about your writing.  Very few people will be.

4.     You have to write more than you talk about writing.

5.     You have to study the industry. 

6.     You must take it for granted that this is what you want to do and it is going to mean sacrifice. I struggled with that a lot, and finally think I’m coming to some peace with it.  Other people don’t understand what you do. 

7.     You must write for someone.  Sure, you can write for yourself, but if you want others to read it, you have to write for others.

8.     Do not sign contracts with “publishers” for $2000 to publish your book.  You can do it for free on Amazon. 

9.     Do not self-publish until you have had it read by at least five people who really proofread well.

10. Find your niche.  Today is a niche market world.

11.  Don't  give away your books.  It will not be reciprocated or appreciated.  The noncreative do not understand the sacrifice that the writers and artists make to produce their work.  It's stinking hard work.  Don't devalue it.