Okay, now back to the topic at hand. This chain was started by the fabulously talented Michelle who asked:
Do you write for the market or for yourself? Why? Are there times you do both? Or times when you've written something specifically because it was "hot" at the moment? If so, how did it turn out?
Personally, I write for myself. Only because if a story doesn't entertain me enough in the writing stage, then there's little hope for getting it down on paper. I started taking martial arts classes with my husband, and it didn't take me long to wonder what would happen if there were still ninja around lurking in the shadows and waiting to attack. After that, KATANA was born.
Plus, I have an incredibly short attention span. If a book doesn't capture my attention within the first chapter - I put it down. The same goes with my writing. If I'm not enamored with my subject and entertained while writing it, I'm going to stop writing. How do I know? Because I have two projects that will never be finished because I tried to write about a subject I didn't really care about. Some people can pull it off. I can't.
So there you have it. Sorry for the short post but I'm getting down to the wire on the house move and I had some good news (that I'll hopefully be able to share soon) over the weekend that has kept me a little distracted. ;)
So, please continue to keep me distracted! Give me your opinion - do you write for yourself or for the market?
In the meantime, check out my new linkmate, Christine, who posted yesterday and Rebecca who will post tomorrow.
Happy Easter!
Great post Cole! I also have the attention span of a toddler and am easily distracted, which also makes me a very impatient person! ;)
ReplyDeleteI have to agree that if you're not writing about something you feel passion for, it's going to show through in the writing. Your voice only shines when you love what you're creating!
What did writers do before the Internet when they were forced to work in solitude?
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I'm like you; if I don't care about the story, then it fizzles out before I can put it to paper.
That's such a great point. I'm like you (just ask Chris!). If I'm not so fired up about an idea that I can't stop thinking about it, I'll get bored after a couple of chapters and put it aside.
ReplyDeleteHope the moves goes well :)
I agree - if it doesn't grab you in the beginning, how will you ever get it done!
ReplyDeleteYes, the story has to have that interesting hook for the writer to even start it before they can even think about the reader's interest. Great post!
ReplyDeleteNice job, Cole. I am so like you in this way. I have such a short attention span it's crazy. I have been known to struggle through a book I didn't like though, because I hate putting them down. I don't know why, I guess I figure I should read through the whole thing just to see if it gets better.
ReplyDeleteFabulous post, and may I just say again - SQUEEE!!!! :D
ReplyDeleteI get where you're coming from about staying interested. I, too, have an extremely short attention span, and ...
ReplyDeleteSorry, I got distracted.
I can't wait to hear your good news. :-)
Good point--interest in a project is key!! ;)
ReplyDeleteGood topic, Cole!
ReplyDeleteCompletely agree with everyone else. I'd also add that writing "for the market" can entail writing in a style/genre that doesn't come as naturally. The problem with this is that you have to do tons more research, preparation, and editing to be sure you get it just right. The alternative is a book that may feel awkward or heavy-handed, as if the author hasn't read much in that genre.
Thankfully, it seems we all write whatever the heck we want, which is an infinitely better way to go, and likely to be a whole lot more satisfying in the long run. Then we just have to wait for the market to catch up to us!
Great post, and can't wait to hear your news. Antony
I think I started out writing for myself. But now I want to write what will sell. I'm hoping those roads can cross and I'll be able to do both.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your move and all. :)
I absolutely agree 100%. And I totally think you could take on any ninjas hiding around the corners.
ReplyDeleteI hadn't thought about that. I do have a short attention span, so if something doesn't capture my interest from the get to, I'm done. Good luck with your move and try not to stress too much.
ReplyDeleteYes, I have to be excited by an idea to make it happen. When you think of how long a book is and the time it takes to write I don't know how anyone could write something if their heart wasn't really in it.
ReplyDeleteGreat post! I think if you don't write for yourself, then your book won't come out that well. :D
ReplyDeleteI'm the same way. If I'm not totally in love with my story, I'll never follow through. Great post! :)
ReplyDelete