Out of Touch: From Writer To Author

Why not buy the book?

If I recall correctly, Kirk is going paperless these days.

Note to Derek: Dont shake Kirks hand.

I imagine if I were a writer though, there would be no cooler feeling then holding my book in my hands.

This is indeed a very cool moment.

Do you get the urge to mail a copy to all of your naysayers? Teachers? Former bosses? Things like that?

This is a serious question. I have people at work who think I'm wasting my time -yet they've never read anything of mine -and yet none of them have imaginations of their own or want to do anything else with their lives. And for whatever reason, when I think of publishing, I think of signing copies for all of them and leaving it on their desks.

Didn't know if this is a normal new author thing or a sad sick me thing?

Good question.

In passing, yes, but I'd never act on anything like that, because seriously, what good could come of it?

Doing the thing that people said you couldn't should be enough of a "win." There's no need to rub anyone's nose in it or be an asshole about it.

Here's how this goes:

It starts off with "you're wasting your time" and "you'll never finish," and then that turns into "it's not good enough" and "it'll never get published," and then that turns into "it'll never sell" and "no one will like it," and then that turns into "fuck you...whatever. You still suck."

The point is, at every stage in your career, there's always going to be naysayers. Every author has them. That's part of the job, and to reference what you said, it's probably not about writing, but rather, the fact that you're doing something they wouldn't dare attempt.

Be "the bigger man," as they say. Finish your book, publish it, and promote. It may take years, but you only "wasted your time" if you quit.

Hey, Brandon -Thank you for that. Seriously, I wanted a serious answer but wasn't quite expecting That. It's some good solid advice that hits home with me because you said something I relate too all too well.

You tell people you're taking a writing class with an author who has good things to say about your work, and they're like "well when are you getting published?" And then you get a cred, and they're like, "Well is it print or online only?"

It's just like, Nothing's Ever Good Enough. And I've learned that I have to get over any resentment over lack of support, and write for the pure reasons.

I've used this example before but I've had friends in bands -and I supported them to the Max. It didn't Matter to me they were playing in clubs or even in basements to a few people instead of stadiums. I supported them. And I've wasted too much time wondering why that support wasn't returned with the writing -especially in cases where it's not even read, but sitting around collecting dust. And I don't want special attention or anyting -just to be able to talk about something close to me with people I see every day. Or maybe the support is returned in some circles and you just have to meet the right people -that's a lot of what I've been trying to do here at The Cult.

But I'm starting to go on and on. I'm just saying -your repsonse "spoke" to me on a level I relate to, and I appreciate it. Thanks again.

No problem, man. Knowing what to expect makes it easier.

Hey Brandon, it's your release day! Must be a good feeling. I would be wearing a huge grin all day if I were you today.

I want to join in the book club discussion this time round. I have been meaning to have a go for a while. Hopefully the book gets here soon enough to join in. (Shipping from US to UK can be a bit random, anywhere from a week to a month, I have had packages sent from the same place on the same day that have arrived a week apart)

If it gets here in time then count me in.

Martin.

Even if it comes in late - add your thoughts. We never "close" a book club discussion. It's always nice to see one reignited a year after the fact. That's why I have the master list stickied to the top of the Book Club forum with links to the threads.

Ordered my hardcover today. Thanks for the kind words, Brandon, I'm honored.

Ordered me a paperback. Awaiting the mail.

Fantastic tale of great marketing. good for you!!

Thanks for putting this together. Your story is an inspiration. Connecting with other writers is so important in this game of life. I want to read your book. I want to feel it.

It smells pretty good too.