I don't know if it's a good idea or not, but after feeling less than thrilled with the results of my just-finished second novel, I have begun to write my third. My wife thinks I have lost my mind. Now let me clarify: there was a lot I liked about my second book, tentatively titled "The Crystal Hills." There were some good characters and some exciting situations, but ultimately I have this feeling that it wouldn't sell. Now, I have long followed the axiom that says you should write what you want and not worry about the market. Considering the market makes you a hack. A HACK! I hate that word. Anyone who considers themselves an artist at any level doesn't want to be one, because it connotes that you have sold your artistic soul for commercial success. I would like commercial success for several reasons:
- It would allow me to focus more on my writing. Between work, my kids, Querytracker and other things that I have going on, it is difficult to really focus on the craft. And for me to be able to do it well, it has to be focused on.
- Commercial success would give me confidence. Knowing that people like what I write and want to read it would allow me some measure of freedom from second-guessing myself. I doubt I will ever reach the point where I no longer ask myself, "Is this a bunch of crap?" At least I hope not.
- It could give me more freedom to pursue projects that might not necessarily be as "mainstream" as others. I say "could" because previous success does not necessarily mean future success. But once you are an established author, you have a little more leeway in what you can submit.
- I get to write for a living. Self explanatory, no?
So taking these things into consideration, I have shelved my newly completed novel and began one that I thought might have a better market. I still like the story I am telling and I like the characters involved, so I feel like it is a better use of my time. There are others who want to beat me over the head for not finishing what I've already started, and, honestly, sometimes so do I. But I feel that if I have a story that will be easier to sell, I will have a better chance with my second novel in the future. I don't know what that says about me, but there it is. Sorry honey. Yet another first draft for you to suffer through!
1 comment:
I don't think it says anything bad at all about you. Do you remember Jess's interview, about how she came up with the idea for her stellar series? She looked at what was hot in the market and came up with a completely kick ass idea that she knew would sell. Does that make her less of an artist, or make her book or her success in ANY way less? Of course not! Writing something you know is marketable is, in my opinion, a great way to use your talent. Why should artists always have to suffer? Write something you know will sell, get published, get your foot in the proverbial door, and all that other fun stuff :) Good luck on your new book!
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