If anyone had ever told me back in 2006, that by 2010, the publishing industry would be turned on its axis, I wouldn't have believed them.
As a writer, I held onto my beliefs that going through a traditional publisher was the only way to go. No exceptions. Then in January 2010, I began to notice a trickle of changes outside my small world, cracking those inhibited beliefs wide open. I stood back and listened...and watched. Time swirled around me as I paid close attention, and read everything I could regarding the swift tides crashing in the publishing world, changing right along with it. And no one persuaded me, I'm quite capable of forming my own opinions, which I did.
My goals now are different than when I started out in 2006. Matter of fact, I'm embracing the knowledge that there isn't any restraints over me anymore. What I'm alluding to is that now I can write anything I want, and have it up on Kindle as soon as I feel it's ready for publication. And I get to have the final say.
It isn't a matter of disrespecting any publisher, small or large, for that choice is up to the individual author...it all has to do with the fact that I've changed. I changed in a good way and for the first time in my life, I understand what it feels like to walk without unwarranted guilt. No one will make me feel guilty for the choices I make in my writing career ever again.
Growing older and added wisdom might have something to do with going Indie. But, for sure, I know my writing will be stronger.
For the heart of a writer can't not write!
Cherri
There's nothing to feel guilty about. Writing is both an art and a business...which makes you an artisan. Artisans are responsible for assessing the market they are in...and the market has changed. Books and stories nowadays have to be assessed on a case by case basis, over which is the best route to publication.
ReplyDeleteIt's kind of like the bards of old. The option now exists for complete autonomy if wished, or other arrangements if so desired. It will be interesting to see how the market keeps changing, because I don't think it's done yet.
True--this industry isn't done changing yet. With ebooks rapidly climbing, the climate between author and publisher is shifting on the scales as well. And as more time passes with this ever-changing business, writers are becoming more firm in standing their own ground. We've become quite savvy at realizing our own worth and claiming control over our work. Isn't that the way it should be? I like that word, "artisan":)
ReplyDeleteOne of my favorite websites is Deviant Art. There, all kinds of INDEPENDENT artists post their work to be viewed by the public. Some of the work is for sale, some of it is not, but it's a fantastic online gallery.
ReplyDeleteIn this digital age, it's up to the author (like the artist) to decide how much control he/she wants to give away. A savvy author takes advantage of opportunities and doesn't let them slip away. Too many times authors are at the mercy of what their publisher does or does not do and ends up actually being sabotaged by their own publisher. The result of course is loss of sales which hurts everyone.
I applaud your decision. There's no need to feel guilty one way or another as this is YOUR LIFE!
Hugs,
Diana
Diana, thank you. My decision didn't come by happenstance--it came with months of research, keeping up with the markets, and wanting more than anything to be true to myself. There isn't anything wrong with wanting the best for ourselves and not settling...for anything less.
ReplyDeleteI also thank Amazon and Smashwords for tearing down the walls in distribution, giving everyone a level field.
Cherri