Connecting Readers and Writers discussion

Kashif wrote: "I went indie because I'm not good enough to be published. First, I knew that as an African American writer, I wouldn't get a second look if my topics weren't very urban or hypersexual. Plus, I expe..."

Kasif - You sound to me like a dedicated, gutsy writer. I can relate to that. Doesn't mean at all that you aren't good enough to be published.

I believe what you say about the publishers is probably true, since they are focused on the "target audience." But it's sad that, because you are an African American, you are expected to write about certain topics. They shouldn't be pigeon holing authors based on ethnicity to this domain or that, just because that has what has been successful for them in the past. A good story is a good story, no matter who wrote it.

Jeff

I tried for several months to find an agent/publisher. I got a lot of interest from my writing samples. A lot of agents, and a couple of publishers gave me accolades. The message I got repeatedly, "You're a great writer, but we're not sure this is the book for us."

I had to realize three truths.

1. I wrote a complex, literary dystopian novel that was probably too risky for most publishers/agents.

2. I am completely unknown.

3. I am asking people to invest in me during the worst economy (2009/10) in decades.

Bottom line, it will be a long time before an offer comes. So, self publishing seemed like the best route. I'd still love for an offer to come, but, in the meantime, I'm measuring success in selling a few books and getting great reviews from readers and reviewers.

Jeff

Thanks Derrolyn and Jeff. I just enjoy writing. Being accepted by a publisher is difficult for everyone so it doesn't bother me much. They pick and choose who they want all the time. I never really looked at it as an option. I'll continue self-publishing for the control and freedom in my writing. I like things better that way.

I think in the end it's about doing what makes you happy. I wanted to write and I wanted my work to be available. I can write and release books and market and network and, perhaps one day, push into a larger market but for now I'm enjoying the ride. Being independent means different things to different people. To me success isn't measured by the decisions of others. It is measured by how well I succeed at the tasks I set before me. When all is said and done we are the only ones who can judge our own lives with the criteria we set. I think most writers goal is to express his/herself through his/her art. That's why I support independent writers, it's about the art, the writing, knowing that there might never be a return.

Okay, enough of my musings. I just started typing there and that's what came out. For anyone who is interested I am offering to do book reviews predominantly for indie writers at my site, www.emilanfiction.com.

E. Milan