Q & A - #9 - "Do you write with the goal of publication, or for yourself?" ~ bostonerin

I pondered and pondered this question, and I've concluded that I don't think this is an OR type of situation. Let me explain.

If I were writing strictly for myself, I would not be writing novels. I write novels to tell a story, and most of the time, I don't feel compelled to tell myself stories. I tell stories to and for other people. So many stories of truth are waiting to be told. And read!

If writing for yourself means I would continue to write even if I didn't get published, then Yes, I write for myself. If it means, as I've so often heard read aloud at critique groups, that writing for yourself is some self-indulgent, I-don't-really-care-about-your-thoughts-because-you-just-don't-get-what-I'm-trying-to-say sort of demeanor, then No. I hope to Linda's Chocolate Fudgecake I never become like that.

If writing for the goal of publication means that I strive to write at a level equal that equals or exceeds those books I read and enjoy, then Yes, I write for the goal of publication. If it means that I try to figure out what will sell and write that story, then No. A resounding No!!! I write the stories I feel need to be told and heard. Simple stories of complex people. Of broken people trying to figure things out in an insane world. Of true actions, thoughts, emotions, and dreams. Stories that offer some kind of redemption.

For me, there wouldn't be much point to telling a story, if no one was ever going to hear it. So I guess I don't exactly write with the goal of publication. I write to be read. And if being read means being published, then let's do it. I'm in.
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