Writer’s Angst
Good ol’ Hammie. Gotta love him.
To be, or not to be: that is the question:
Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or to take arms against a sea of troubles,
And by opposing end them? Hamlet 3/1
What is a fiction writer? In the midst of pitching, marketing, pleading, and defensive angst, it is a tough question to answer. Especially when cornered at the soccer field watching your kid get pummeled for the umpteenth time and you are making small talk with the mom next to you. Unless one is on the NYT best seller list or prominently displayed at the local B&N, what do YOU say to, “Oh are you published?”
I answer, in all honesty, “Yes I am published.” Followed up with a quick ”Do you have a spare $150 to read my book? You’ll enjoy it if you are interested in early Syriac Christianity.
Fiction book published? No. Not yet.”
Will my stories contribute to world knowledge? No. I’ve done that and the world hasn’t noticed yet. Will my stories take you to another place and let you enjoy an escapist minute, hour, or day. Yes. I’m not highfaluting. I’m writing English (usually) fiction with a paucity of footnotes, languages, and bibliographies. What I can promise you is a fun time with a fair amount of blood, sweat, and tears behind it.
Is it worth it? Darn tootin!
Stephanie Jarkins
www.gothmomz.com
twitter: skjarkins
8 Comments
You made me smile; writer’s angst or not. I like the way you think so, I know I’ll love the way you write.
Great post, Stephanie. And no, I don’t have an extra $150 to read THAT book. BUT, I’m anxiously awaiting any future works from you. I know it will be soon.
Stephanie
WOW! Can I touch your hand next time I see you? Maybe some of the smarts will rub off on me! I am Very Impressed. How many people have a book selling for $150.00? I already knew you were awsome, just not how much.
Can’t wait to read your fiction.
Jan
No need for touching my hand. Quite a few folks with that publisher have their books for sale for that price point – sadly.
Actually, her book is pretty interesting. I’ve read it–several times. It does help to be interested in early Syriac Christianity. . . I learned a lot. You can always go sit and read it in your local university library.
I am also looking forward to reading the fiction!!
Soon LJ! Soon!
You’re a tad biased – given that you edited the piece! I think you know it better than I do! Thanks, Leaella!