Self-Publication

What's the fascination with self-publication? I've talked to some folks who've made what sounds like a rational argument for paying someone to take their works (without the aid of a real editor) and emblazon their words in a tome for very few to read. And maybe, they do it just to see it for themselves. Is the writer deluding him or herself by plopping down $400, $800, $1000 or more to crank out a few paperbacks or chapbooks to do with whatever they please? Future paperweights?

Why would a writer impose their words on a world that does not seek to hear them? Is it because you think they really need to hear this, and this is the medium to get others to finally envision what you dream? If it's not done through a trade publisher, with the help of an editor, and possibly a literary agent, what have you really accomplished, except prove to everyone else you are soft in the head?

There are works I would pay to read. I don't come across those everyday here. I can't say that I would care to see my own words in print. I can't imagine anyone who would want to pay for the right to do so.

So why self-publish? They are called 'vanity publishers' for a reason. They can profit from the weak and foolish, want to fool you and maybe others into thinking you've arrived. Maybe, you could prove that old English professor he/she was wrong. Uh-uh. They know that self-publishing is a trap. Do you think your relatives will believe you've arrived? Maybe a few who are linked to the your delusional gene will buy into it. But as the dust collects on your unshelved genius, the cobwebs on their own brains disappear. Subtly they will start reminding you to focus on that more reliable day job.

Self-publication is a long shot. Not something you bank your dreams on, when no one else is investing in your novel vision. Self-publication is the easy way out. Consider the submission-rejection process as tough love. If you truly believe you have what it takes, your time will come. It takes patience and maturity, and unfortunately, a lot of luck, to get your book published in the traditional fashion.

If you are John Grisham or J.K. Rowling, you can ignore this advice.


Another related opinion:

ID: 1313734   (Rated: 13+) Title: So Many Authors, Where Are the Writers?  Description: An admonishment and encouragement to review and be receptive to reviews. By: Rope