When I was growing up, I thought that being a writer (which automatically included being published) meant writing a book, mailing it off to a publisher and checking the mailbox every day in anticipation of the letter that read, "We are pleased to notify you that we would like to publish your novel."
With some variations, that's what I still thought until a couple of years ago. Of course, I learned a long time ago, that much rewrite and many drafts were involved and that it was extraordinarily unlikely that the first publisher I queried would want to publish my book. However, I still believed in the process; that eventually I would find a publisher following the "write it, mail it, anticipate it" steps.
Fast forward to the publishing revolution. Revolution is defined in the dictionary as "a dramatic change in ideas or practice." Boy, is that an understatement! Today, in order to even be considered for publication, an author needs to develop an "online presence."
So, what are we to do? We make the necessary adjustments to our thinking and we go about the business of working hard to establish that presence. Why? Well, for me, because being a writer means that I NEED to write and, that I want to have READERS!
With some variations, that's what I still thought until a couple of years ago. Of course, I learned a long time ago, that much rewrite and many drafts were involved and that it was extraordinarily unlikely that the first publisher I queried would want to publish my book. However, I still believed in the process; that eventually I would find a publisher following the "write it, mail it, anticipate it" steps.
Fast forward to the publishing revolution. Revolution is defined in the dictionary as "a dramatic change in ideas or practice." Boy, is that an understatement! Today, in order to even be considered for publication, an author needs to develop an "online presence."
So, what are we to do? We make the necessary adjustments to our thinking and we go about the business of working hard to establish that presence. Why? Well, for me, because being a writer means that I NEED to write and, that I want to have READERS!
And good luck!
