Being a starving artist has its ups and downs. Mainly its downs, but if your passionate about what you do, oh well. My ups include, but not limited to, no rules, no censorship, and complete freedom (unless your collaborating). The downs include, but not limited to, no money. Every serious writer has at some point dreamed of being signed to a big time publishing house. Huge advances to live off of so all you have to do is write. All the advertisement (well some of it to be fair), marketing, promotion, formatting, editing, and art work are left to professionals who are getting a nice slice of the money pie. And then there are the deadlines. I know, I know a lot people hate having to rush and struggle to get a project complete, but me personally have found deadlines helpful in me creating structure. And, its a great motivator. Two options. Get it done by Christmas or be sued for breach of contract. You write.
So, here I find myself with lots of work to do, but not always an incentive to do it. I'm still a no name so the stuff I do put out either doesn't sell or sells very little. Very discouraging. One masters of taboo book has been released and two more announced. I've completed all my submissions for that particular series for what may be the next three years. I have numerous stories that need to be written, but why rush? Where's the pay off? As of right now, I have a lifetime to get all of them done. Which is good, but may also mean, they'll never get done. Get it?
Incentives include, but are not limited to, praise and money. I get praise all the time. I'm a great writer (with still a lot to learn)I get it. Money! Haven't seen a dime, yet. Even though you sell books on kindle you won't see a penny of it until you make enough in royalties to warrant them cutting a check. I've learned that when given a deadline on a writing project I get inspired, focused and determined. I'm more than positive money will also be a huge boot to my ass one of these days.
Speaking of money. . .
Lets not forget the murderous love story that has people up in arms.
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