Naked
By Sharon Bially | December 30, 2010 |
At this year’s end, with temperatures near twenty and snow fluttering to the ground, I stand before you naked.
Don’t blush. Don’t turn your head. Just look directly at these words. They wear no cover, no jacket. No pages. Just like the words of my novel, Veronica’s Nap.
In September, I launched Veronica’s Nap…on a blog. Having had agency contracts for two previous novels that didn’t lead to publishing deals, I realized early in the submissions process this third time around that I just couldn’t stomach the roller-coaster ride anymore. It was time to move ahead from a place of strength, on my own. A true believer in social media, I opted for a blog as my publishing tool.
Because the rise of blogging has made us all boldly – almost shamelessly – immodest about sharing all sorts of writing online, it didn’t occur to me at the time that I’d feel so exposed. That besides getting lashed directly by the bitter wind of author friends turning their backs in silence and family members raising eyebrows, I’d relive adolescent-caliber insecurity due to my lack of “the right” accessories: an editor’s approving insignia, a publisher’s logo radiating prestige.
Yet at the same time (now you can blush), it feels good to be naked! It’s exhilarating, filled with discoveries and delicious first times. Though some friends have indeed disappeared, many more have emerged from the woodwork. Strangers have stepped forward to share fascinating stories. So have other writers taking similar initiatives. I’ve been surprised and touched by invitations to give readings, to speak at book club meetings, synagogues and churches and to lead seminars. The joy of forging these heartfelt connections when I least expected it runs far deeper, I suspect, than the thrill that might have come from receiving standard accolades or praise.
Most importantly, it’s liberating. In shedding layers and accessories, I’ve realized how superfluous they are. While I once dreamed of the day when an agent or editor would hold my hand as I revised and publicized, I’ve now mastered new skills and learned to make strategic decisions alone. And while I used to imagine flashing “my agent’s” name like a four-carat ring, I’ve discovered that inner strength has a much brighter and enduring glow.
Jane Friedman recently wrote right here on WU:
While I don’t think you’re killing your chances of traditional publication when posting your work online (no matter what your reasoning), there’s not much point in doing so unless you have a strategy or goal in mind, and a way to measure your success.
With staggering masses of writers pouring their hearts and lives into work that’s so rarely given due recognition or pay, and with the publishing industry’s model serving so few of us well, I think it’s time we gave some serious thought to what success really means.
My two cents: it comes from within.
What layers are you wearing as writers, and why? How can you shed them?
Sharon Bially (@SharonBially) is the founder and president of BookSavvy PR, a public relations firm devoted to authors and books. Author of the novel Veronica’s Nap, she’s a member of the Director’s Circle at Grub Street, Inc., the nation’s largest independent writing center, and writes occasionally for the Grub Street Daily.
Nice blog post. I haven’t published my book on my blog, but I did publish it myself and have enjoyed doing so for the most part. Oh, I’ve felt the insecurity, from time to time, in doing it on my own; but, I’ve also enjoyed the satisfaction of the hands-on approach… Very satisfying.
Lou… author of The Zen of Max (a memoir of great wisdom and many naps)
I’m of a different opinion.
First let me say that I enjoyed reading this post and examining your view regarding the topic of having your work online.
I have done this a couple of times. I only did it with short stories and it was years ago. I posted an award winning story in 2007 so my blog readers could read the story that won.
Earlier this year I posted a short story as it was part of a contest where the judges went to the blogs where the stories were posted to read them.
I have since removed all these postings.
The only part of my novels that got posted were on Scribd to help with sales.
Your writing is your artistry. Your writing is your product. To sample the goods is a fine idea, but to offer them at no charge isn’t commercially viable.
It all depends on your long term goals as a business owner.
Although, offering one whole novel online in order to garner readers for your future novels can also work.
Again, it has to come back to your plan within your business model and it needs to be a viable option within that parameter.
In my opinion…
Sharon, I think it is incredibly brave of you to do what you’re doing–and the naked metaphor is right on. I think Daryl’s comment (above) is right on, too, insofar as he says, “It all depends on your . . . goals.” What is most impressive about Veronica’s Nap (besides the writing) is that you considered your options in an informed way and from personal experience, set a goal that made sense to you, and then went for it!
It’s that last bit (going for the goal) where so many fall short.
Kudos to you!
I think it depends on your goals, as Anne and Daryl have said. If your goal is traditional publishing, this method may not help you. But if traditional publishing isn’t your top priority, and instead you want most to share your story with the world, then publishing online may bring you fans, strengthen your platform, and lead to an increased confidence in your work — definitely a form of success.
Thanks for this, Sharon!
(And p.s. What I’ve read of Veronica’s Nap is lovely, lovely. Congratulations.)
Blogging has changed the face of a lot of the media world, as has print on demand.
Publishing a novel online – Very 21st century and I love what you are doing.
I know I’m a little late, but congrats on your recognition and top ten placing! The list bought me here and I’m going to have great fun going through your past writing.
Have a peaceful, prosperous and fulfilling 2011
Nic
I’ve got them all. I have free reads on my website. I have free and modestly priced stories and books at Smashwords and the Kindle Store. I have traditionally published books, and I have an agent shopping a new series. The hope is that eventually they’ll come together as “me” and readers can pick and choose what they prefer.
Terry
Terry’s Place
Romance with a Twist–of Mystery
I think it takes guts to publish your novel in a way that’s so new when the entire world of self-publishing is still taking shape. No, this method won’t be right for everyone, and as others have said, I think it’s important to have a clear understanding of your own goals before you do this. But if you’re comfortable with the pros and cons and you’re willing to do the legwork that’s required, then go for it. Congratulations on getting naked!
If you’re already naked, jump on in and go skinny dippin’ in your writing joy. :) It seems you’ve found a stripped down approach to what makes you feel good about your art and making connections with people who appreciate it. Wishing you every success and a stack of plush high-end towels!
I, too, applaud your work, Sharon – and your willingness to try something nontraditional. While I am currently chasing the ‘traditional publishing model’ dream, I do find myself reevaluating my own personal writing goals. You have opened my eyes to yet another possibility, especially as it applies to sharing and a new world driven by technology. Keep up the great work. And congrats on being a true trailblazer. You’re an inspiration.
This is a great post…being unpublished, I’ve also been hearing a lot about how publishers look for writers who have some sort of a platform. And while I don’t want to self-publish or go with ebooks, I have a series of short stories that I’m writing – more like a written TV show than a serialized novel – that I’ve been planning to post on a blog to help build up a community – a platform – while I do my best to get my actual novels published traditionally.
What the Dickens?
Sharon, I like the platform idea and the process of building it; however, turning away from traditional publishing process is a big step.
I am more cautious about sharing words of my writing but it works for some of us, for sure.
Sometimes, I wonder, are we returning to the an electronic form of the penny presses of the 1800s?
Dickens would probably be in his glory with the new form of publishing. Would love to read a response by Charles!
For writers, would he say, “It was the best of times. It was the worst of times.”
I wonder.
Patricia
https://pmpoetwriter.blogspot.com/
Wow… I post mine as a serial up on my blog but I never knew posting novel on a blog is something so… rare. I thought it was more of a standard practice but I guess it isn’t in the writers crowd.
What a lovely post. Regardless of what the right path is for other authors, I hope we all can applaud your bravery, your hard work, and your beautiful honest words here. I certainly do.
Sharon, first, I love your writing and actually followed you ‘home’ to Veronica’s Nap after reading your blogs.
I must be dislexic as I did not see that you said you posted your entire novel online. I read it that you post and you self publish. Did I miss the key phrase?
I have written a seven (7) novella series and am giving away the first episode that provides a deep back story of the protagonists in hopes it will fire off interest in actually buying the rest. Fingers crossed.
I’m still at the place where I want to pursue traditional publishing, but I’ve seen many writers with agents, contracts and book deals who don’t feel at peace or validated even when their books are on the shelves. Success that’s externally derived doesn’t seem to work for long.
Glad to hear you’re feeling liberated and empowered!
This is a great, brave post. There are so many options out there, and it’s good to test the waters. I’m sure what you’ve learned from this experience has been invaluable, whether or not you decide to do it in the future.
I self-published my first book, Receive Me Falling, and I’m so glad I did. It has been a great experience in so many ways. I have very little negative associations with it. The best part about self-publishing or serially publishing via your blog is that you can still get it traditionally published in the future.
I love innovation and courage. You have both, and I thank you for sharing your journey.
Well I applaud nudity in any form, so WELL DONE! (I’m not leading the Naked World Domination Tour for nothing). I would LOVE to see some ‘out side the publishing system’ method of accreditation or approval that gave these alternative methods of publishing legitimacy (when merited) but this post has convinced me to give you a look, as the honest (naked) voice rings true.
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Regardless of whether or not your posting was the “right” or the “wrong” thing to do, you tried something you had to try. That’s a choice you had to make, win or lose, for yourself. It’s not like you stepped on anyone’s toes by making it. I’m of the opinion that the friends you lost were well worth losing.
Though not my first choice, posting my work on a blog, I concur that you must do what you think is best for YOU. Editors, agents, and fellow authors will criticize NO MATTER WHAT. Always stay true to yourself. Follow your dreams. Life is an unfolding process.
This post is going to sit with me for a while and makes me question what I consider success. Is it securing an agent, getting published, a midnight release of my book, all leading up to an exclusive interview with Oprah? Or is it as simple as starting a conversation with your words or helping others realize their full writing potential. Things to ponder. Thanks for getting the conversation started.
Wow, Sharon! Look at the conversation you started here. Maybe 2011 will be the year when authors stop talking about changes coming in publishing and genuinely explore all the possible options. I hope you’ll consider writing a post about why you chose to serialize on the blog rather than self-publish. (I assume cost was the biggest factor, but were there others?
This was a great conversation!
Happy New Year to all!
Patricia
Wonderful and thoughtful post. I am still working on my first novel, but I have publisjed poetry both traditionally and online and I still feel exposed when I submit it. Writing, no matter the genre, is very personal. You are expressing yourself in those strokes on the page. It’s good to know there is a better outcome — feeling empowered by the exposure. Thanks for the encouraging thoughts.
Belated thanks to everybody for this fantastic conversation!
Nina – good suggestion. Lots to say there beyond the fact that I’m a true believer in the power of social media.
Daryl – you make an excellent point about the commercial / business aspect. I’ve always advocated for authors to do everything in their power to help their books’ sales. That said, since not all worthy books get offered publishing deals, I think simply sharing, even for free, is a better option than tucking those books away forever in a drawer. And by the way, don’t most bloggers work for free as well?
Alex – The whole novel’s not up there yet. I’m posting about 1000 words a week, and the whole thing should be up by October 2011.
Have thought about doing this with my novel. Having hit brick walls, I wonder should I hold out for the “traditional route” and keep trying, e-publish through Apple or Amazon, blog it like this or put it in a drawer. I read this most recent installment and will take it from the beginning. I, too, dream of that pied a terre in Paris. Which arrondissement pour toi?
I love this post, Sharon. I would venture that all writers who disseminate their work feel exposed but I love the way you conjure your unique experience of ‘blovel’ nakedness.
[…] was published, which in the spirit of wrapping up 2010, I’d like to share. You can check it out here. It’s called Naked. Beware: I take it all […]