I sold a lot more that I expected I'd sell, but I would have sold a ton of new books if I'd had them. Every day's a school day.
One of the library folks shot this photo (that's me on the far right). Young Hannah (holding my book) has a huge collection of books autographed by the author. Her mom is a publisher and Hannah spends a lot of time at book fairs and other events.
She's a delightful child who is an avid reader. I'd be willing to bet that one day she too will be a writer.
A lot of the people who came through today wanted to talk about the process of writing.
I gave several people the same spiel I always give -- if you want to write to make money, save yourself some time and go buy a Powerball ticket.
I suggested that they start a blog to help hone their craft and build discipline. I suggested they read voraciously, and study the craft.
At the end of the day, I'd be surprised if anyone listened and even more surprised if anyone listend and actually took my advice.
All of my blogger friends know -- growing as a writer takes time, it takes study, and it takes practice. Yes there are a few who write beautifully without any of the above. There have been individuals who've written books that were instant successes and they went on to become obscenely wealthy. But I think it's easier to buy a lottery ticket and hit the Powerball Jackpot.
I think you may be right about that, sadly so,
ReplyDeleteTo make money is no reason to do anything.
ReplyDeleteYes, it is hard to make money by writing. But, doing what we love to do is important, too, as long as we can survive while doing it. :\
ReplyDeleteI remember telling number one son, when he came to me to say he wanted to study Latin, Greek, and Philosophy that he needed to study something to support himself while he studied Latin, Greek, and Philosophy. He did that. He got his CPA, his JD, and a PhD in Professional Ethics so he can afford to teach Philosophy. He teaches now at Georgetown University.
I'm one of those who would be better off buying the lottery ticket. But I've always known that writing is definitely not one of my talents. So I just enjoy what others have written.
ReplyDeleteGood advice!
ReplyDeleteI write because I just can't keep from writing - it's in my blood. . .Writing for money is exactly as you say.
I love to write, but I can't even imagine how difficult it would be to organize myself to write a book - to even decide what to write ABOUT. Good for you - and I'm glad your day went well. I'm feeling some reflected glory in your accomplishment - how every exciting!
ReplyDeleteWell said and I for one am listening...
ReplyDeleteHugs~
Don't you love finding a child who is inquisitive and well read?
ReplyDeleteLove,
Lola
Looks like everyone has the same opinion as I do on this one.
ReplyDeleteI love the blog to hone your talents advice. Elisa gave me the same advice last year and I did it to amuse her. I'm not any good but I amuse her so i guess all is well..
I am not an aspiring writer, but nevertheless appreciated this advice...just in case I were ever to birth the urge. So glad the day was successful.
ReplyDeleteYay for Hannah and for you too!! Oh who on earth goes into the writerly business to make money!?!?LOL!
ReplyDeleteTake care
x
I've had some of those visions of being a published writer in my head too. It's probably less painful being hit in the head with a hammer. Yes, buying a lottery ticket has to be easier - doesn't hurt nearly as much and a person can still dream about the prize at the end.
ReplyDeleteNice picture of you at the library.
I'm glad your event went well. That's sound advice you give :-)
ReplyDeleteI always thought I would love to write a book..then reality hits and I realize I'm much better at reading than writing! I'm glad there are talented people like you who keep the rest of us entertained, informed and also keep the state lotteries in business! Glad you had a good day, enjoy your weekend Rick.
ReplyDeleteI'd like to meet the writer who writes great without effort! Glad you had a good time at the book event.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you. Reading voraciously and writing regularly are necessary to learn the craft well. People who are not writers believe that writing is some kind of romantic deed based on inspiration. I wish they understood that inspiration comes with hard work.
ReplyDelete