For those of you who have been,
- Thread starter *Pudge*
- Start date
- Status
Well ... it didn't help me lose weight or learn how to spell. Helpful gnomes do not emerge on the weekend to weed the garden and that's what I really need.
Basically, nobody and nothing that matters has changed because I got pubbed.
But getting pubbed did mean I could stop looking for agents and publishers, which was an activity I didn't enjoy at all.
Getting pubbed meant that the next manuscript got published and I got a contract for two more, which is very satisfying and gratifying to the ego and because I didn't have to worry about the 'selling the manuscript' stuff it was unbelievably less hectic.
But getting pubbed means I now have (a) deadlines and (b) people who put up reviews of the books.
These (a) and (b) rank somewhere between mixed blessings and the torments of hell, depending on how you look at them.
Yes. The agent picked the ms up from the slush pile. An absolutely cold query.
Depends ... depends ... depends ... depends.
Last edited:
- Joined
- May 13, 2005
- Messages
- 1,680
- Reaction score
- 282
- Location
- Vancouver Island
- Website
- bmlgordon.com
I haven't been published, but I do know that nobody rational goes into writing for the money. If you write sf/f, you may want to check out Tobias Buckell's survey of advances for first time authors in the sf/f field.
As far as I can tell from the published writers I do know, what changes is that suddenly you have to work to a deadline, instead of chugging along at whatever speed fit in with the rest of your life. And you have to thicken your skin so you can listen to an editor and withstand negative reviews (or no reviews at all, which is worse). You don't miraculously become more confident or more talented.
Books do get picked from the slush (Stephen Zielinski's first book, Bad Magic, was found in the slushpile, as was China Mountain Zhang by Maureen McHugh) but it's very rare indeed. Mostly because most of the slushpile is not very good writing. All hopeful writers should read Slushkiller.
-Barbara
As far as I can tell from the published writers I do know, what changes is that suddenly you have to work to a deadline, instead of chugging along at whatever speed fit in with the rest of your life. And you have to thicken your skin so you can listen to an editor and withstand negative reviews (or no reviews at all, which is worse). You don't miraculously become more confident or more talented.
Books do get picked from the slush (Stephen Zielinski's first book, Bad Magic, was found in the slushpile, as was China Mountain Zhang by Maureen McHugh) but it's very rare indeed. Mostly because most of the slushpile is not very good writing. All hopeful writers should read Slushkiller.
-Barbara
- Joined
- Nov 13, 2007
- Messages
- 1,032
- Reaction score
- 235
- Location
- Ireland
- Website
- www.celinekiernan.com
It changed a lot. I now have an agent to fight my corner and three book's lined up for publication.
It changed how scared I am. I'm much more frightened then before. Before, I was just entertaining (fooling?) myself, now I'm having to prove myself.
It changed how I wrote for a while. I was too scared to write the way I usually do, kept looking over my shoulder and second guessing myself. But I gave myself a good slap and have settled back down.
It gave me a year off work ... perhaps two if things are going as well as they seem, and gave me the chance to write full time for the moment.
Hmm ... I don't know. perhaps you would consider not? I subbed on an introduction ( someone introduced me to an agent who liked my pitch)
As someone else said. Depends, depends, depends. I have made enough in advances to take at least a year off work. That's far more then I had expected, but after that I don't know, it all depends on sales doesn't it? And that's a bit of a crap shoot, I guess. Certainly I wouldn't reccomend giving up the day job based on a first sale ... but I see this as my one and only shot and I'm going for it guns blazing.
Last edited:
Publishing may not change things very dramatically, but it sounds like it could still bring change. 
- Joined
- Feb 11, 2005
- Messages
- 43,746
- Reaction score
- 8,654
- Location
- Los Angeles
- Website
- www.amazon.com
It's given me a lot more work. I have to get out and sign books, give talks etc. I also have to work seriously on the next book - you can't leave too long between publications. I still don't have an agent and haven't really looked for one. But it is a real boost to the ego to be introduced as a published author. It is almost worth it just for that. And that's good because it's not been worth it for the money - not yet, anyway.
Thanks for this thread. It gave me a better idea of what happens if...I mean when...I get published.
- Joined
- Jul 25, 2006
- Messages
- 1,996
- Reaction score
- 348
- Location
- Hawaii
- Website
- patriciawoodauthor.com
You would think it changes things but it just ups the ante.
The money is validating but ultimately it's just you and the page...I have had to develope a thicker skin-
btw I did get picked up out of the slush pile...
There is no "what would one be likely to earn"
It's impossible to predict...
It's what a publisher is willing to pay.
The money is validating but ultimately it's just you and the page...I have had to develope a thicker skin-
btw I did get picked up out of the slush pile...
There is no "what would one be likely to earn"
It's impossible to predict...
It's what a publisher is willing to pay.
- Joined
- Oct 23, 2006
- Messages
- 7,676
- Reaction score
- 5,784
- Location
- A Little South of Sanity
- Website
- www.ginikoch.com
When I got an agent (through an in-person meeting, not the slushpile), it meant I got to be rejected at a higher level. NOW the people rejecting me were the real deal.
When I got a publishing contract...well, I had more than one book out to sub and I still have more than one book out to sub...but the contract meant that now I get to hurry up and wait at that higher level.
And, I cared about the advance, but I care far more about whether or not I sell through and if I can force additional print runs. You make your real money in royalties, at least until you're a big name with a big following, and after, too.
When I got a publishing contract...well, I had more than one book out to sub and I still have more than one book out to sub...but the contract meant that now I get to hurry up and wait at that higher level.
And, I cared about the advance, but I care far more about whether or not I sell through and if I can force additional print runs. You make your real money in royalties, at least until you're a big name with a big following, and after, too.
Hey Pudge - I feel your angst!
But yes, I did get picked from the slush pile.
But then again, no, publishing did not really change anything. maybe a wee tad more respect from some people for my life's work - others just smirk.
And I have not earned one penny to date because my publisher only pays out royalties once a year!
I've gotten great reviews but still unable to sell my second manuscript. hoping that will change soon but I feel like I am back to where I started out.
The reality of it (for me) is much less gratifying than the dream.
I've been asked this question by my friends (quite a few times, actually), and in all honesty I can't say that there's been any substantial changes. I'm still the same boring old putz I was before I signed the contract. A couple extra zeros in my bank account and the weight of looming deadlines . . . that's all I've noticed.
It's a nice feeling, to be sure, but the way you're treated now . . . the person you are now . . . the fears and neuroses you have now, these things will not magically change once you secure a publishing deal. If anything, the fears and neuroses multiply. Because with even slight success comes the notion that you will have something to lose should you make a misstep or not earn your keep. It can be a harsh and cold business, publishing.
Best,
Scott
Edited to add: I got plucked cold from my agent's slush pile.
It's a nice feeling, to be sure, but the way you're treated now . . . the person you are now . . . the fears and neuroses you have now, these things will not magically change once you secure a publishing deal. If anything, the fears and neuroses multiply. Because with even slight success comes the notion that you will have something to lose should you make a misstep or not earn your keep. It can be a harsh and cold business, publishing.
Best,
Scott
Edited to add: I got plucked cold from my agent's slush pile.
It hasn't changed some things at all and it has changed others. I didn't suddenly feel more confident about my writing or anything like that. On the other hand, I've learned a lot from going through the editing process a few times and I think my writing has improved as a result. I am busier-- deadlines for revisions, some promotional stuff (I don't do as much as some people... just the odd talk or interview, maintaining a very basic website, stuff like that... but it all takes time). And I can submit new manuscripts directly to my editor which means I don't have to spend hours struggling with query letters- yay.
Yup, I did get picked up out of the slush pile. Query letter, first chapter, all that.
And like everyone has said, what first time authors earn varies hugely. I got a small advance on my first book, which has now (nine months later) just about earned out. That book has been reprinted so hopefully this fall I'll get my first royalty cheque and be able to buy a margarita with it. Maybe two.
Yup, I did get picked up out of the slush pile. Query letter, first chapter, all that.
And like everyone has said, what first time authors earn varies hugely. I got a small advance on my first book, which has now (nine months later) just about earned out. That book has been reprinted so hopefully this fall I'll get my first royalty cheque and be able to buy a margarita with it. Maybe two.
- Joined
- Oct 23, 2006
- Messages
- 7,676
- Reaction score
- 5,784
- Location
- A Little South of Sanity
- Website
- www.ginikoch.com
- Joined
- Jul 15, 2008
- Messages
- 146
- Reaction score
- 102
What it would mean to me.
Thank you for all of your comments, they are all great.
If When I get published this is what I want from it,
1. To sit on a train, bus or Plane etc and see someone happily engrossed in it.
2. To hear a stranger say to another - "You have to read this book",
3. To make someone feel that they have found a friend, to laugh with, to cry with and miss him/her when they have finished reading.
4. To have earned enough money to pay for the postage of my M.S (that got returned 100 times before my genius was recognised)
I live in hope.
QUOTE - JOB (Well ... it didn't help me lose weight or learn how to spell)
That's number 5
By the way you guys are all fab!
Thank you for all of your comments, they are all great.
1. To sit on a train, bus or Plane etc and see someone happily engrossed in it.
2. To hear a stranger say to another - "You have to read this book",
3. To make someone feel that they have found a friend, to laugh with, to cry with and miss him/her when they have finished reading.
4. To have earned enough money to pay for the postage of my M.S (that got returned 100 times before my genius was recognised)
I live in hope.
QUOTE - JOB (Well ... it didn't help me lose weight or learn how to spell)
That's number 5
By the way you guys are all fab!
- Joined
- Jul 15, 2008
- Messages
- 146
- Reaction score
- 102
I just had to stamp out the apostrophlea. Stamp!
By the way Madison - Feel free to give me these tips - I'm not ashamed to say I could have a better handle on it!
- Joined
- Nov 13, 2007
- Messages
- 1,032
- Reaction score
- 235
- Location
- Ireland
- Website
- www.celinekiernan.com
LOL. Thanks Madison. maybe I should put my old sig back, where I apologise in advance for my heinous spelling and punctuation. I'm practically dyslexic when it comes to them.
- Joined
- Jul 15, 2008
- Messages
- 146
- Reaction score
- 102
I am happy to learn - Back to basics - here we go,
“WHO,” “WHOM,” “WHOEVER,” AND “WHOMEVER”:
The Questions:
1. She was asked to keep track of _______ came in late to work each day.
2. ________ should I say is calling?
3. _________ finishes the project first can leave work early.
4. _________ she selects as project manager will have to work many long nights.
5. We are pleased with the person _______ she has chosen to be the office manager.
The answers:
1. whoever [he came in late to work each day]
2. who [he is calling]
3. Whoever [he finishes the project first]
4. Whomever [she selects him as project manager]
5.whom [she has chosen him to be the office manager]
“WHO,” “WHOM,” “WHOEVER,” AND “WHOMEVER”:
The Questions:
1. She was asked to keep track of _______ came in late to work each day.
2. ________ should I say is calling?
3. _________ finishes the project first can leave work early.
4. _________ she selects as project manager will have to work many long nights.
5. We are pleased with the person _______ she has chosen to be the office manager.
The answers:
1. whoever [he came in late to work each day]
2. who [he is calling]
3. Whoever [he finishes the project first]
4. Whomever [she selects him as project manager]
5.whom [she has chosen him to be the office manager]
- Joined
- Jul 15, 2008
- Messages
- 146
- Reaction score
- 102
Comma before "and"
One of the questions we are asked frequently is whether a comma should go before the conjunction "and" in a series of three or more items. The answer is yes. Although grammar gurus abandoned that comma rule for a while in the twentieth century, we have since realized that using the serial comma (as it is called) is a good idea for two reasons:
First, it prevents misreading. Consider this sentence, for example:
The menu for the class picnic will feature green beans, stewed apples, macaroni and cheese and okra and tomatoes.
Without the serial comma, the series items are difficult to see. Here is the same sentence with the serial comma added:
The menu for the class picnic will feature green beans, stewed apples, macaroni and cheese, and okra and tomatoes.
With the serial comma, the reader can tell easily that the class ate four different dishes, not five or six, as may have been construed without that last comma.
One of the questions we are asked frequently is whether a comma should go before the conjunction "and" in a series of three or more items. The answer is yes. Although grammar gurus abandoned that comma rule for a while in the twentieth century, we have since realized that using the serial comma (as it is called) is a good idea for two reasons:
First, it prevents misreading. Consider this sentence, for example:
The menu for the class picnic will feature green beans, stewed apples, macaroni and cheese and okra and tomatoes.
Without the serial comma, the series items are difficult to see. Here is the same sentence with the serial comma added:
The menu for the class picnic will feature green beans, stewed apples, macaroni and cheese, and okra and tomatoes.
With the serial comma, the reader can tell easily that the class ate four different dishes, not five or six, as may have been construed without that last comma.
I've occasionally mused about exactly what publishing would mean to my life in general and I can't help but expect that I'd still be working, still be crunched for free time and still living life pretty much as I've been for the past few years - hopefully with a bit more cash in the bank accounts, though! I'm sure every aspiring author (and even the published ones) all dream of hitting the big time - I think I could handle Rowling's financial situation ;P - but I'm not so egotistical as to think that I'll be getting there any time soon. I'm just gunning for the personal confidence boost of knowing I made it, even if only on a small scale.
Although, to be honest, the prospect of deadlines scares the hell out of me. ;P I don't mind setting a pace for myself, as that's how I successfully finished my book in the first place (ahead of schedule, even!) but I can only write so fast and when time permits. I hope those deadlines aren't too restrictive!
Although, to be honest, the prospect of deadlines scares the hell out of me. ;P I don't mind setting a pace for myself, as that's how I successfully finished my book in the first place (ahead of schedule, even!) but I can only write so fast and when time permits. I hope those deadlines aren't too restrictive!
Not really in terms of what some have expressed as a goal (seeing others reading the book, etc.). What is does (or should) change is the writer's attitude toward writing. It should be viewed as a successful venture against a new intellectual challenge (one with fairly stiff odds). However, it should also be viewed as a brand new challenge with raised stakes. Now it is necessary to go after the next book, and in the process, continue (always) to improve on the use of the craft and on storytelling.
Figure on beer money and be pleased when it goes beyond that.
- Status