It must’ve been about a year and a half ago when I discovered Duotrope. Before that I found literary magazines on the Poet & Writer website. Everyone wants you to read their magazines to figure out what they like, and that makes sense. I work full-time, however, and can’t read everything.
I love to read, but the working writer faces some unique challenges. I’m still seeking a publisher for Boeotian Rhapsody, and the other day on Duotrope I found a publisher that wanted authors to submit a marketing plan for their books along with the manuscript. At least they were very clear—we’re not going to publish unless you do the selling.
One of my best friends works in publishing (non-fiction, unfortunately). I sometimes ask him about this. Are authors supposed to market their own books?
Well, this blog is one answer to that question. Yes, even established publishers with full staffs have to have author support to make a book successful. Unless you’re one of those writers who made a reputation before the internet took over, you’re going to be marketing your book as well as writing it.
I don’t mind supporting my own work, but it would help to have a publisher who knows the territory better. Self-publishing has become such a temptation. Some of those who do it get discovered. Most—the vast majority—do not. What is my marketing plan? Well, I’ve got to go to work in the morning.
Some of us write out of compulsion. Ours is, let’s be honest, the more authentic work. We are also likely the ones who will remain undiscovered.
Writing a novel while working a full-time job is a near miracle (I’ve managed to do it six times, but publishers have been far less impressed than I am). Of course I would promote my book, if it were published. I even have a friend or two who might even help.
I should be able to get back to that novel soon, but right now I’m busy trying to figure out what a marketing plan is.
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