Something interesting came up in conversation with a writer-friend of mine, the fantastic Nicole Evans. We’ve been talking about my decision to self-publish, what that means, how things are different, and she mentioned something about a self-publishing mindset.
For some reason it stuck with me.
The conversation started because I added back a scene at the end of Jagged Emerald City. I’d taken it out in an attempt to slash my word count, but it’s bothered me that while it wasn’t “necessary” to have this particular scene, it’s absence seemed to take away from the closing of that arc. But now that I’m in control of publishing it, I don’t have to worry about my word count. (Within reason, of course.)
I’ve always been someone who wants a partner in this publishing adventure. I like challenge and learning, and this can be difficult (and lonely) to do by yourself. For me (and probably a lot of you too) this has always meant getting an agent and a publisher. There’s also an element of validation in having someone (who is a supposed authority) say “yeah, this story is great.” It’s not just you believing in yourself. I get nervous that without someone pushing me, I’m going to stagnate, or get stuck and complacent when I’m low on energy.
(There is also the up-front costs part. I’m not ignoring that just not what I’m delving into right now.)
However, looking for mentorship and validation in the publishing industry may be a foolish endeavor anyway. If you’ve been paying any kind of attention, publishing has a *cough* few flaws, and doesn’t treat their creatives very well. I hear there’s improvement, but still. There’s a long way to go.
Additionally, the whole “it’s all on me” thing is hard to avoid when most authors are responsible for a huge chunk of their own marketing.
The point in all of this is: I’ve stepped down the path of self-publishing, and it’s been really freeing to know I can just… make the decision and run with it. I can try new things without worrying I won’t be able to. I can share my writing without worrying about legal requirements. I can hire my own artists for covers and fulfill the vision I have in mind.
And while it’s scary, and this might not be for everyone, I think it’s going to work great for me đ
Just FYI that book I mentioned putting back a scene in, it’s published and in the world! Check out what Jagged Emerald City is all about here!
So, of course I love this post. đ Are we surprised? No. But I do think there is something special of being able to “own” all aspects of the process (cost discussion notwithstanding). But, like you, I crave that validation from a partner, like an agent or an editor, which is the main reason I haven’t thought about self-publishing seriously. Yet, as I see more clearly the flaws of trad publishing, the idea of self-pub becomes more and more exciting.
I am hoping it is an amazing adventure for you!