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What if the writing’s on the wall…a portent of doom…but you can’t read it?
Some say a death knell is tolling for publishing as we’ve known it–that the writing is on the wall, whether we can read it or not.
Part of me panics at that thought. Books made of paper have been a treasured part of my life since I was a baby sitting on my mother’s lap. I’ve dreamed of writing a book of my own, and then holding that book–feeling the pages, smelling the ink and glue. Writing my name on the title page with a flourish for a reader, who will take it home and love it.
I’ve wanted the feeling of validation that comes with traditional publishing–that a professional, someone with profit on their mind, has read my stuff and deems it worth a financial risk. And next year that particular part of my dream will come true, when my scribbles will be typeset and pressed into paper.
But does the writing on the wall say that this path, the one I’ve only put one foot on, is about to end?
Last week I finished reading my first novel on an e-reader (my phone) and immediately wrote to the author to tell her how much I enjoyed it. She responded to say “it’s a fun time to be a writer.” That got me thinking.
I see writing on the wall, but I don’t know what it says. I do know one thing it’s telling me…that things will change. I don’t believe anyone can say exactly what that change will be. Just that it will be.
It's so exciting to see how things are changing and opening up for writers!
You're so right! I have to remember and keep positive.
I agree. Even in paper, authors have to work against obscurity.
Did anyone ever tell you how awesome you are? You're on the cutting edge of life!
awww! Coming from you, that means a lot.
Sometimes I wish I had a crystal ball, or at least a few of the answers. Sigh.
oh, me too, me too.
Great article! Personally, I'm excited. I know the entire industry is in the midst of change and there will be good and there will be bad. I've just convinced myself to accept them both as a package.
But now that you say it, I will regret it if I never get to sign a book. That would break my heart.
My hope is that both kinds of books will flourish. Thanks for the comment!