This is just an update post to let my readers know what is going on with me and why I haven’t been blogging much or visiting my many Internet friends. Basically, I don’t have the time to spend keeping up with blogging right now. I’ve reached a point where I’ve discussed every subject I’m interested in ad nauseum. I’ve left hundreds of thousands of comments on blogs all across the world—which has been great, and I love the people. For me to ever finish my writing projects: two unfinished novels and an anthology of short stories, I cannot spend a lot of time on line right now.
For anyone trying to work full time, blog (and I mean be a real blogger where you commit yourself to the people and other blogs, leaving tons of comments, replying to every comment you get and doing the whole social networking thing) all while writing four or more hours per day on novels—is overwhelming and is preventing me from getting my work done. I have contemplated quitting this blog, but I have a fairly successful blog (whatever that means) and I will need it once I have something finished. If I can afford to, I will give as many copies of my first novel away for free to my readers. Basically, I plan to give as many copies away as I can for free to anyone. I know I can give away a lot more novels than I can sell.
These days in publishing, if your first one or two books don’t sell well, you are screwed. You have to get a new contract and rebuild yourself. I don’t want to be an author who has six novels published with minuscule sales like 9 out of 10 Internet book authors. I want to make sure my first book is great, and I will not settle for anything less. One mistake I see writers make is they self-publish their first book and immediately try to sell it. It doesn’t work, especially if the price is over $15.00. I’ve seen some authors trying to sell thier books for $50.00 or more for a hardcover. I would never pay $50.00 for a book! I usually pick up used books for like $2.00. If you don’t have a massive following on your blog and in social networking (and I mean massive: a blog with 40,000+ page views per month), you’d be better off giving it away or selling it at cost. To waste your writing efforts on selling a few hundred (or few dozen) copies is not wise if you want success. Give it away in PDF download form. Get a booth at next year’s Web 2.0 Expo and hand copies out like water with your site in bold letters on the cover. It is expensive to do, but is a worthwhile investment.
Some writers have taken the on-line book path, writing each new chapter on a blog. I’ve yet to see anyone get a best seller from an on-line novel (I could be wrong, but it’s definitely not an effective way to get published unless you are a true expert in Internet marketing).
Instant Blogging Gratification and Feedback
One thing blogging will do to any writer, is condition them to thrive on feedback and comments. You write a story and people say, “Oh you’re such a great writer,” or “I love this, your skill blows me away,” and so forth. That’s the enemy of a writer. Writing a novel is a lonely affair and to expect instant feedback can kill your work. I think it best to write it before anyone reads it. Writing an on line novel maybe good practice, but to really be serious, I think it best to write it away from the Internet—on paper or a word processor. Writing a book is not blogging, and they should be separate. But don’t take what I say too seriously, this is just my opinion and an on line novel may work best for you. Anything is possible and anything could work. Do what you think is best for you.
I will continue this site, but will not be writing tons of articles or visiting hundreds of blogs every day. Time is so valuable! I will be visiting all my friends soon, and I do apologize for not visiting lately. It is time for me to get serious about writing.
#1 by Jeunelle Foster at March 26th, 2009
| Quote
Bobby boy are you right about time.
I really only blog for myself as a sort of fun therapy and I really don’t care about what people have to say about my blog.
I figure if they happen to like something about it great and if not that’s fine too.
I add to my blog whenever I have time.
When it starts to become a chore to me and quits becoming fun, I will move on to another hobby.
I really don’t believe that many people will be successful in making great amounts of money blogging, it’s just too much work and the money seems to be really in social networking ownership, not so much blogging anymore.
For what it’s worth Bobby I like your blog and you really put a lot of time & effort into it and it shows, so yes add to it when you have some spare time.
Personally I have a few other blogs that I am going to sell off and get rid of later. I may just put them up for sale at Sitepoint and say bye bye to those babies.
It really does come down to time and it seems like I may need to do some spring cleaning to find the time that I need.
Hang in there dude.
#2 by Revellian at March 26th, 2009
| Quote
Hi Jeunelle! Blogging has been a “chore” at times; when that happens I usually just take a break. Really to make money with social metworking, it all points to somewhere—usually a blog or site of some kind. Blogging is social networking and I see no difference between the two; they go hand in hand. I know how easy it is to get tired of blogging, but every time I go through that phase (and I’ve been though it many times), I eventually become interested again. So I will keep my blog going. I will create another site before long titled with my name solely to promote myself as an author. The days of making money blogging are not over, it’s simply evolving.
But yeah, time is running out for all of us (unless you’re not human), so I must put mine to good use! Like you, I just blog when I feel like it and have time. I cannot let it rule my life
#3 by Svasti at March 26th, 2009
| Quote
Hey Bobby,
Good for you. Gotta do what you need to do. I’m very interested in your comments about writing a book vs blog writing. Eventually (although I’m far from ready now), I have plans to write a book myself.
Have you ever heard of Belle du Jour? She started her blog way back when, and it was picked up and turned into a novel, then a second. And a TV show based on the books. But I do think overall, that kind of sucess story from blogging is rare.
Good luck with your novel. When you do post, we’ll be here. And when your novel comes out, it will be a great thing to see!
#4 by Revellian at March 26th, 2009
| Quote
Hi Svasti! While anything is possible, I think Belle du Jour is an exception, not the rule. Of course there are no rules in life.
I’ve often thought about writing under a female pen name, because I think the perspective would be wild. Like any writer, I would love to be successful, but I don’t think about it when I’m writing. And I know my own inability to conform to societal standards of decency in writing will probably keep me out of the mainstream. Then again, the mainstream is where the talent isn’t—in most cases. Some writers call themselves writers of extreme fiction, but to me they are not extreme at all. My novel is extreme in every sense, and if anything will create controversy lol!
Thanks for your support and I look forward to reading your first book!
#5 by Michelle Gartner at March 26th, 2009
| Quote
I feel the same way about blogging lately- there are just too many projects I care more about then blogging. I see you have analyzed the publishing dilemma rather well. I am still debating what I should do with my first book. I am thinking self publishing and marketing like the Paolini kid- who knows he self published and then got picked up by Knopf I believe.
Good luck Bobby!
#6 by Revellian at March 26th, 2009
| Quote
Hi Michelle! I went several days without looking at my blog and I felt like I needed to at least say something. Yes, Christopher Paolini is successful at a really young age, though I just can’t read stories about elves and dragons (I’ve tried).
That’s why I want (before I get an agent) to have at least two different books finished, maybe even three. It’s so easy to make a crucial mistake in getting the right agent, or getting a contract too soon and not putting out something really good. Of course, looking at some of the crap on the NYTimes bestseller list, I’m beginning to think it really doesn’t matter how good your work is. Books these days are like pop songs and authors like pop artists–and the industry is so brutal. You’re selling one minute and dropped like a hot potato the next. I’m self-publishing my first and doing what Scott Sigler did; give it away for free at the web 2.0 expo. His extreme success is perhaps a freakish occurrence (like Paolini’s) but seems like something I could do (though my stuff isn’t as mainstream as theirs).
Thanks Michelle, I’ll be around in the blogosphere, just not every day
#7 by GregR at March 27th, 2009
| Quote
I thought about a private invitation only blog/wiki where you could do realtime editing with some trusted friends/editors.
I suspect if you can get people to do it, the quality should rise dramatically.
Cheers
#8 by Catatonic Kid at March 27th, 2009
| Quote
I’m actually rather glad you’re getting your focus on your writing, Bobby. Not that I won’t miss your friendly, wonderful presence because of course I will. But you are a genuinely good writer, and your voice is worth whatever it takes
Sending good luck your way.
#9 by Nina C. at March 27th, 2009
| Quote
Good for you, I look forward to reading your new work soon!
sometimes i get tired of blogging or way too busy and when I do I just stop for a little while regroup and keep going. I do it for enjoyment and not for trying to make money. If you do you’ll never fully enjoy it and you’ll be soo dissapointed. Good luck on everything!
#10 by Michelle Gartner at March 27th, 2009
| Quote
I never read the Paolini books either- I saw the movie because of the kids and thought it was sort overtly ripped off from Tolkein and CS Lewis. But the background story about his publishing I found interesting… It’s one of those where there’s a will there’s a way.
I’ll have to google Sigler, I like to read about how people break through even if I don’t care for the genre.
#11 by Revellian at March 27th, 2009
| Quote
@Greg: I would have a difficult time taking too many hints, tips and opinions from other writers. Writers tend to be overly opinionated. I had one writer tell me that all books must be written in third person, past tense perspective and anything else will be scrapped by every known agent. I’d only change something if it were the difference between getting paid or not–and I had to. But it is an idea to consider!
@CK: Thanks! I will be around in blogging, just not much. I’m thinking around 5 articles per month is as much as I care to write for this blog. When I think of visiting my blog friends, it feels like a big job. It’s like living in a city, and trying to visit everyone you know by driving to their homes for a ten minute visit hahaha! I will be around and will definitely be visiting you!
@Nina: I do love blogging, and above all, I love the people. It has definitely put strains on my time though, but I will be around and will be by soon!
@Michelle: I love to read about those success stories too and see how they did it. It can be done, and with so many ways available, they should all be considered. I of course will get an agent and put 100% into getting a good publishing contract. But if I do self-publish, I will give away the book for free until I can no longer afford it–then I’ll sell them at cost. My book will not be in the horror genre. It’s really an intense drama about love, loss, despair and plunging into the depths of insanity–a human story about normal people making really horrific choices. Really, all ideas are ripped off from somewhere aren’t they? LOL!
#12 by John D at March 28th, 2009
| Quote
When I started reading this post I was worried you’d be dropping the blog altogether and am relieved that you’re not. Of course, your novel work comes first, and whatever that means for blogging – so be it. But I’d miss your voice and presence terribly – your free spirit, inventiveness, great writing and – well, humanity are so refreshing.
I agree that the commercial publishing world doesn’t respect anything of value, as a rule. And I do have a friend who’s published 10 or 12 good books but sold little. Since the industry has become even more ruthless since his publishing peak, I’m sure he can’t get another book out. Even when he was able to get books accepted, the publisher would do little or no publicity. Crazy! We all have to find better ways to do this, and online self-publishing is building in a promising way.
All my best to you on your writing projects. I know the writing will be worth waiting for.
John
#13 by Revellian at March 28th, 2009
| Quote
Hi John! I know through much experience in the music business that a writing contract is much like a recording contract. I’ve personally known so many people that start taking off and end up working in a different field altogether. It’s a tough business. There are so many great writers deserving real attention it’s ridiculous–and they never get anywhere.
I can’t leave blogging, I just can’t. But I do have a realistic plan and I believe I can succeed. If I ever do make any real money writing, at least 50% of it will go to feed starving children and help with medical costs. As I’ve said many times, money means absolutely nothing to me, but it means a lot to the less fortunate around the world. And ultimately, that is my purpose. Thanks for your kind words! You inspire me
#14 by teeni at March 28th, 2009
| Quote
Hi Bobby! Thanks so much for checking in with us and letting us know what is going on. I feel good knowing that you aren’t blogging because you are working on things in real life, especially your writing which I think is a big part of you so it is very important. But again, I’m glad you let us know so I wouldn’t worry.
I have been having a rough time making my blog rounds too since I started going back to school. But I will still check in on you whenever I can. I wish you good health and good progress on your book. Check in when you can, but no pressure! Hugs to you!
#15 by Jennifer at March 29th, 2009
| Quote
Bobby — I completely understand what you mean (as you probably already know).
Your point about the feedback is a good one. Writing for the instant feedback seems like an unhealthy writing practice (and one that is hard to resist). When you are writing anything, from short stories to a novel, you need to be in the moment for a while, with the ideas somewhat hidden away, just you and the work. Getting things out quickly or letting a blogging schedule determine what you put up can really quash the creative process. At this point, I’m afraid to share my unbaked or partially baked ideas with anyone, for fear that they will evaporate in the daylight.
I also agree that writing online novels or short stories via a blog won’t necessarily result in a publishing contract (or in good writing, for that matter).
And I’m going to keep my own blog up for now — taking your suggestion and supportive comments to heart. Thank you.
#16 by Revellian at March 30th, 2009
| Quote
@Teeni: I hope all is well in school! If I ever go back to college, I will be an English/creative writing or maybe a journalism major. Who knows what I’ll do. I did notice a sudden downshift in your normal posting frequency, but I understand. Slow paced bloggers are good for me because it’s easier to catch up. When someone pumps out 12 posts per week, I feel lost on their site!!! Hahaha. It’s great to hear from you
@Jennifer: You changed your mind? Well that’s great! I am so happy, and you just take your time and blog when you like. I now blog without worrying about visiting everyone every day and all that. I feel freed from the shackles of blogging obligation. I must say, I started my novel from scratch again. It has over 450,000 words and after reading the entire thing, it is just too long and unfocused. I finally have purpose in writing it. I’m taking all the good parts and distilling them down to fit a much better structured plot. Using some novel writing software helped in fleshing out the plot much better, though I write solely in a wordprocessor and use a notebook to keep up with characters. The software helped in a better outline. One thing is clear, all this editing and reediting has really become easier. This novel will be finished before next December, that’s my goal and I must stick with it. I figure a 2nd book will take 8 months or so, not 5 years like this one LOL!!! I’m one of those people who has to do everything himself and learn the hard way. It’s nearly impossible for me to be satisfied with my writing, but my novel is really coming together. It is exactly like I want it. It’s in first person, present tense–and I’ve managed to actually create a spacious vibe as first person is so limiting in scope. It’s really more difficult than third person for me. Avoiding starting every sentence with “I” and avoiding too much narrative diatribe–letting the character’s conversations drive the plot. I can’t wait to give everyone a copy! And welcome back to you!!!!
#17 by Mike at March 30th, 2009
| Quote
Hey Bobby. Such great points about blogging vs. writing. Writing being offline work. I mean, I think the two are separate mediums. Of course online blogging should be interactive and that’s what makes it great. However, writing a book should be done entirely offline in my opinion. Feedback is good and all, but at the end of the day writing is an intensely personal experience. I don’t know if I’d want to have every chapter of a book out there for critique before the work was finished. It would probably mess with my head and end up taking it in a direction that I never wanted. So yeah, great post. It’s funny, just as you’re getting less time to blog I think I’m finally going to start up my blog again.
#18 by floreta at April 2nd, 2009
| Quote
i hear what you’re saying. i feel like such a newbie writer but from every writer i know of, this is the process. to shut away to writing a story (a novel, if you will) and not share with anyone until it is completely done. i find myself ’slacking’ on the blog world myself. i’m trying to write a story… not sure how long it will be, that i hope to share on my blog sometime. but it’s slow going and overwhelming. yep!
#19 by Revellian at April 2nd, 2009
| Quote
Hi Floreta, it’s always a pleasure to hear from you! Writing is such a deeply personal thing–as deep as love. I go through phases in blogging where I just disappear (like lately) and then come back when I’m ready. Whatever story you write, I would love to read. I have a short story I’ll be publishing here soon, a departure from my normal psycho-hallucinogenic transgressional fiction, and deals more with normalcy (something I just don’t comprehend). I will be by to visit soon and am sure you’ll write something great!
#20 by Angela at April 4th, 2009
| Quote
You are such a doll! You have so many great things to read on your site so take your time and dive in deep my dear! When we miss you we can always come back and read from your great collection of work.
I know you will be around, and it fills me with the deepest satisfaction knowing that you are concentrating on the thing you love so much…writing.
Writing is a hard mistress! But you just can’t stay away.
#21 by Revellian at April 5th, 2009
| Quote
Thanks Angela! I’m really in the groove of long writing sessions, but will be trying to write some stuff here. I guess I’m tired of the world’s political problems and thinking about it drives me insane. The world’s problems are out of my hands and the truth is, maybe I don’t know a damn thing about how things are supposed to be hahaha! I will be by your blog shortly
#22 by Solomon at April 17th, 2009
| Quote
Hi Bobby!
I lookforward to your books, but don’t quit blogging. In a span of two days, I became a huge fan of you. I never find a person who’s so nice and who is so open with things. I find you very straightforward and down to earth. which is quite rare. Your unique voice is very much needed to inspire several people like us now and in the future!
Solomon