An Inquiry About Writing
Seeking advice about writing for an income13 total reviews
Comment from Marge Setzer
I read your piece because I, too, have had some of the same questions you have posed. I can't quite figure out if you are complaining or are just frustrated. Your research is helpful for those of us who have tried to get something published. But if your main objective in writing is making a wad of money, I suggest you revise your motivation. I suggest that you join a writers' group or an organization such as Writer Advice www.writeradvice.com. You will get newsletters that may have some leads for you. They also sponser contests. Good luck. Let me know how you make out. Thanks for sharing. Marge
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reply by the author on 15-Jan-2018
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I read your piece because I, too, have had some of the same questions you have posed. I can't quite figure out if you are complaining or are just frustrated. Your research is helpful for those of us who have tried to get something published. But if your main objective in writing is making a wad of money, I suggest you revise your motivation. I suggest that you join a writers' group or an organization such as Writer Advice www.writeradvice.com. You will get newsletters that may have some leads for you. They also sponser contests. Good luck. Let me know how you make out. Thanks for sharing. Marge
This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.
Comment Written 15-Jan-2018
reply by the author on 15-Jan-2018
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Thank you Marge, for your reply and honesty. I am sorry for coming across as being angry. Frustrated is more accurate. I have a fault. When I get an idea, I dive in and start swimming as fast as I can. I swim towards what I imagine as being a confirmation of my idea, at which point I can stop swimming so hard, and start enjoying the water.
I have realized several things since "diving in". I like to write. I will retire in just over a year. I need some form of income to supplement my retirement income. I see hundreds of invitations to make money writing. Hence, - you get the picture, most are all scams. I have learned that I write because I like to share stories, not for an income. Writing is a method to capture one's memories and thoughts, to be shared long after the author is passed. With the Lord's help, I am starting to see the waters clearing, and may have a new initiative. Regardless of what I write, I have to establish an audience and have my work recognized. This is the part where there is no income. This reminds me of a bit of advice I received shortly after high school, at my first factory job. The senior gentleman said, "You have to feed the cow before you can milk it." Thus, I understand I've got to put a lot of work in up front, and some money as well, before I can expect to receive any rewards.
I have already received some rewards, and it is honest feedback from other writers such as yourself. I've already taken a quick look at www.writeradvice.com, and see this could be a valuable link. I sincerely thank you for your time and honest feedback. I truly appreciate it.
-Dan-
Comment from Teri7
Dan, This is a very nice write you have done asking for honest help. I wish I could help you my friend, but I have not finished with the work on the book I am working on for our grandson. When I think of people I ask if I need help it is Robyn Corum or Dean Kuch. They are both very smart people. If they don't know by experience I am sure they can send you to the right people. I hope this helps you. Best wishes with your endeavor! Teri
reply by the author on 15-Jan-2018
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Dan, This is a very nice write you have done asking for honest help. I wish I could help you my friend, but I have not finished with the work on the book I am working on for our grandson. When I think of people I ask if I need help it is Robyn Corum or Dean Kuch. They are both very smart people. If they don't know by experience I am sure they can send you to the right people. I hope this helps you. Best wishes with your endeavor! Teri
Comment Written 14-Jan-2018
reply by the author on 15-Jan-2018
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Thank you so much for your reply and honesty. You are the second person to suggest Robyn Corum. And I agree, Dean is another knowledgeable writer. I truly appreciate you taking the time to read my inquiry. Thank you.
Comment from Brigitte Elko
My friend. I know what you are talking about. The scams are everywhere. The only useful help I found was in hard copy old books which lead you through the grammatical and content processes to target audiences. Most publications have their teams in place and are therefore dead ends.
My suggestion: ( I did this) meet with writers). I went to the local newspaper and was hired as a free lance writer. I was assigned pieces but also initiated some from just going around town. This is usually fruitful if you are willing to work at it.
Specialized magazines will accept relevant stories most of the time..my first true story accepted four days after submission, a check received.
I have my second book at a publisher right now and it will come out shortly.My first book, a children's book was published in October and is doing well. I am doing the hard promoting and book signings.
I could write more but I believe you get what I am saying. Contact me with specifics if you wish. I can give you my e-mail.
Good luck friend,
Brigitte
reply by the author on 14-Jan-2018
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My friend. I know what you are talking about. The scams are everywhere. The only useful help I found was in hard copy old books which lead you through the grammatical and content processes to target audiences. Most publications have their teams in place and are therefore dead ends.
My suggestion: ( I did this) meet with writers). I went to the local newspaper and was hired as a free lance writer. I was assigned pieces but also initiated some from just going around town. This is usually fruitful if you are willing to work at it.
Specialized magazines will accept relevant stories most of the time..my first true story accepted four days after submission, a check received.
I have my second book at a publisher right now and it will come out shortly.My first book, a children's book was published in October and is doing well. I am doing the hard promoting and book signings.
I could write more but I believe you get what I am saying. Contact me with specifics if you wish. I can give you my e-mail.
Good luck friend,
Brigitte
Comment Written 14-Jan-2018
reply by the author on 14-Jan-2018
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Thank you Brigitte for your reply and honesty. Yes, this inquiry has provided my far more truth and given me a much better idea of the work before me. I'm not giving up. I've received a few very good ideas. I really appreciate your time and help.
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Anytime I can be of assistance, I am here. Today I was asked by an upcoming young musician to write a review to publish on his websites. I have seen him perform. This is also income. Just an idea for you. The best of luck and nice to meet you Daniel Wood. If I come across legitimate assistance I will let you know.
Brigitte
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Thank you so much Brigitte. I really appreciate it.
-Dan-
Comment from rtobaygo
Good morning, Dan
Enjoyed the read. I understand your frustrations.You bring up substantial complaints and questions regarding not only on making a living through writing, but also the number of scams there are to entice then trap the eager writer. Well done.
My apology for not reviewing you work sooner. My health is day-to-day, so when I miss a few days, the number of reviews are substantial.
Take care and stay safe,
Ray
reply by the author on 14-Jan-2018
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Good morning, Dan
Enjoyed the read. I understand your frustrations.You bring up substantial complaints and questions regarding not only on making a living through writing, but also the number of scams there are to entice then trap the eager writer. Well done.
My apology for not reviewing you work sooner. My health is day-to-day, so when I miss a few days, the number of reviews are substantial.
Take care and stay safe,
Ray
Comment Written 14-Jan-2018
reply by the author on 14-Jan-2018
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Thank you for your reply and kind words. I am sorry to hear of your illness. I hope you get well soon.
Comment from Thesis
HI Dan, you make some valid points about the scams around. I've encountered the same. Although I've also found that contest writing can be somewhat profitable, as well as some magazine submissions and connections with local papers on specific topics. The amount of money you are seeking to make is achievable, but it does take a while to secure the right contacts wh utilize you for more than one article. Although it is discouraging in the beginning, it can happen. You have to be very disciplined and persistent.
reply by the author on 14-Jan-2018
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HI Dan, you make some valid points about the scams around. I've encountered the same. Although I've also found that contest writing can be somewhat profitable, as well as some magazine submissions and connections with local papers on specific topics. The amount of money you are seeking to make is achievable, but it does take a while to secure the right contacts wh utilize you for more than one article. Although it is discouraging in the beginning, it can happen. You have to be very disciplined and persistent.
Comment Written 13-Jan-2018
reply by the author on 14-Jan-2018
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Thank you for your reply and kind words. I appreciate your suggestions. Thank you again.
Comment from giraffmang
Hi Dan,
There are some reputable places still out there but few and far between. Many of them have faded into obscurity because of the scams out there. It's more or less killed them off.
I don't think there's a quick solution.
It takes time to build up a presence in the writing world and sometimes you have to let your work go for the exposure rather than the pay. it helps.
I started giving my stories away from free to fledgling magazines and publishers in the hope of being recompensed further down the line. That has happened a couple of times for me but it's a chance you take.
They are numerous competitions out there, but many of these are also scams, given the entrance fees and little feedback.
Editors & predators still exists I think as a checklist.
Writers of the future offer big pay-outs for winners but it's incredibly competitive.
Best thing is look at submissions for anthologies and magazines and try to derive a steady income from those. Some pay low but others up to 8 cents per word. The industry standard is about 6 cents per word so you can judge from there about income.
The other thing to consider as well is that on this very site, short work is encouraged, however, in the real world things tend to be longer with 3000-5000 words being the sweet spot. (this is around $180 - $300 dollars per story)
Ghost writing doesn't pay terribly well either - I've done a few and it is just writing for money. Set formula and so on, but it works for some people.
Check out Duotrope (it's a paid service but gives good leads on possible jobs)
All the best
G
reply by the author on 13-Jan-2018
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Hi Dan,
There are some reputable places still out there but few and far between. Many of them have faded into obscurity because of the scams out there. It's more or less killed them off.
I don't think there's a quick solution.
It takes time to build up a presence in the writing world and sometimes you have to let your work go for the exposure rather than the pay. it helps.
I started giving my stories away from free to fledgling magazines and publishers in the hope of being recompensed further down the line. That has happened a couple of times for me but it's a chance you take.
They are numerous competitions out there, but many of these are also scams, given the entrance fees and little feedback.
Editors & predators still exists I think as a checklist.
Writers of the future offer big pay-outs for winners but it's incredibly competitive.
Best thing is look at submissions for anthologies and magazines and try to derive a steady income from those. Some pay low but others up to 8 cents per word. The industry standard is about 6 cents per word so you can judge from there about income.
The other thing to consider as well is that on this very site, short work is encouraged, however, in the real world things tend to be longer with 3000-5000 words being the sweet spot. (this is around $180 - $300 dollars per story)
Ghost writing doesn't pay terribly well either - I've done a few and it is just writing for money. Set formula and so on, but it works for some people.
Check out Duotrope (it's a paid service but gives good leads on possible jobs)
All the best
G
Comment Written 13-Jan-2018
reply by the author on 13-Jan-2018
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Thank you G for your reply and honesty. You have provided some figures that I can use as a base, and that is good. Yes, I am getting a better understanding of putting my work out there for the exposure, and not an income. Volunteer work has been recommended by a few people now, and I am looking into a couple prospects now. I think I got pretty excited from the initial hype I read from the scams, and now realize they created a bit of false hope within me. I am glad I posted this inquiry. I have a much better outlook on what to expect, and what I must do. I will also come up with a Plan B for income. The writing aspect is something I enjoy doing, and want to continue regardless of any income it brings. Thank you again G, I really appreciate it.
Comment from Dan Diego
Hi Dan. I am not a selling fiction writer but I am a technical writer for a defense company. So, if a defense company hires you, you have one foot in the door. But I don't think that's what your asking for.
And because I have a full time job, I don't look for income from my fiction writing. But I do have a plan to pursue fiction writing upon my retirement. But honestly, I don't expect the salary range you specify in your post. I just want to continue drinking quality beer like Pabst Blue Ribbon.
My plan is to target a specific magazine that pays 5-8 cents a word and build from there. That means, I have to pick a genre. I am using FS as measure of my skills in certain genres. Practice, practice, practice, is my motto and take chances in horror, thriller, and even romance.
But your situation sounds more immediate than mine. I do agree with your assessment about "scams." One has to be careful to not lose money in their quest to be a selling writer.
If I were in your position, I would start by volunteering to write a recurring column for a local, small distribution newspaper. I would call it "Citizen at Large" and volunteer to write people's stories for free - at the mall, at an intersection, at the racetrack. You are not a selling writer when you do this, but you are a published writer, which is a stepping stone. Most editors would give you a chance, but be ready to provide them samples. On this path, you are pursuing a by-line. Along the same lines, it does not have to be 'citizen at large' - some small print newspapers need stringers for high school sports, or obituaries, or even recipes. It just takes the courage to ask.
If I think of any other ideas, I'll let you know via message.
Good luck.
reply by the author on 12-Jan-2018
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Hi Dan. I am not a selling fiction writer but I am a technical writer for a defense company. So, if a defense company hires you, you have one foot in the door. But I don't think that's what your asking for.
And because I have a full time job, I don't look for income from my fiction writing. But I do have a plan to pursue fiction writing upon my retirement. But honestly, I don't expect the salary range you specify in your post. I just want to continue drinking quality beer like Pabst Blue Ribbon.
My plan is to target a specific magazine that pays 5-8 cents a word and build from there. That means, I have to pick a genre. I am using FS as measure of my skills in certain genres. Practice, practice, practice, is my motto and take chances in horror, thriller, and even romance.
But your situation sounds more immediate than mine. I do agree with your assessment about "scams." One has to be careful to not lose money in their quest to be a selling writer.
If I were in your position, I would start by volunteering to write a recurring column for a local, small distribution newspaper. I would call it "Citizen at Large" and volunteer to write people's stories for free - at the mall, at an intersection, at the racetrack. You are not a selling writer when you do this, but you are a published writer, which is a stepping stone. Most editors would give you a chance, but be ready to provide them samples. On this path, you are pursuing a by-line. Along the same lines, it does not have to be 'citizen at large' - some small print newspapers need stringers for high school sports, or obituaries, or even recipes. It just takes the courage to ask.
If I think of any other ideas, I'll let you know via message.
Good luck.
Comment Written 12-Jan-2018
reply by the author on 12-Jan-2018
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Thank you, Dan, for your reply and honesty. You mentioned some volunteer ideas once before, and I am checking on a couple potential prospects now. I like the ring to "Citizen at Large". Could be the title to a blog? I appreciate all your ideas. Yes, I'd say I have a lot of leg work to do to get this plan off the ground. Again, thank you so much.
Comment from Thomas Bowling
You ask a valid question. Unfortunately, they are all scams. The way to get published is through a literary agent. Most publishers won't accept submissions unless they come from an agent. They are hard to find.
reply by the author on 12-Jan-2018
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You ask a valid question. Unfortunately, they are all scams. The way to get published is through a literary agent. Most publishers won't accept submissions unless they come from an agent. They are hard to find.
Comment Written 12-Jan-2018
reply by the author on 12-Jan-2018
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Thank you, Tom, for your reply and honesty. I truly appreciate it.
Comment from Bill Schott
Your inquiry states that you have 12-18 months to make something happen. Why is that? Retirement? Leaving your job? Writing as a living is something people plan, not look for a quick entry into. There are a hundred million frustrated writers out there who want to be famous or, at least, profitable, using some sort of short cut. There is only one shortcut to writing success and that is that you are already famous and people want to read about you. Otherwise you will need to start adding the hours, days, and years up to become readable enough to impress a publisher to print your work.
Nowadays, I've noted, many people simply write their best stuff, say a bunch of short stories or a lot of good poetry, and begin sending it to publishers. Along the way they get feedback as to why they aren't going to get published ... yet. The process is a struggle which requires commitment and a thick skin.
Some people self-publish with mixed results. Those who are their own editors usually find that they are bad ones. Others, who do the writing well, need a way to get it out there; that may take a financial seeding that gets books printed, then a venue to stage them for public access. Got a friend with a store you could drop off your book for purchase? What about online access?
Advertising makes it happen. I see lots of junk for sale, not necessarily writings, but, anything, and it sells because the seller advertised it. If the buyer connects advertising with something that is worth buying, then a sale is made. If it's your book, and they like it, they may tell others, look for more works with your name on it, or something else.
Most famous writers grew up writing and always meant to do it for a living. They got degrees in it. Spent half their lives becoming an overnight success. Some get lucky, or know somebody who knows a guy.
Regardless, time cannot be your factor. It will probably always take seemingly forever for any acknowledgement of success.
reply by the author on 12-Jan-2018
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Your inquiry states that you have 12-18 months to make something happen. Why is that? Retirement? Leaving your job? Writing as a living is something people plan, not look for a quick entry into. There are a hundred million frustrated writers out there who want to be famous or, at least, profitable, using some sort of short cut. There is only one shortcut to writing success and that is that you are already famous and people want to read about you. Otherwise you will need to start adding the hours, days, and years up to become readable enough to impress a publisher to print your work.
Nowadays, I've noted, many people simply write their best stuff, say a bunch of short stories or a lot of good poetry, and begin sending it to publishers. Along the way they get feedback as to why they aren't going to get published ... yet. The process is a struggle which requires commitment and a thick skin.
Some people self-publish with mixed results. Those who are their own editors usually find that they are bad ones. Others, who do the writing well, need a way to get it out there; that may take a financial seeding that gets books printed, then a venue to stage them for public access. Got a friend with a store you could drop off your book for purchase? What about online access?
Advertising makes it happen. I see lots of junk for sale, not necessarily writings, but, anything, and it sells because the seller advertised it. If the buyer connects advertising with something that is worth buying, then a sale is made. If it's your book, and they like it, they may tell others, look for more works with your name on it, or something else.
Most famous writers grew up writing and always meant to do it for a living. They got degrees in it. Spent half their lives becoming an overnight success. Some get lucky, or know somebody who knows a guy.
Regardless, time cannot be your factor. It will probably always take seemingly forever for any acknowledgement of success.
Comment Written 12-Jan-2018
reply by the author on 12-Jan-2018
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Thank you, Bill, for your reply and honest feedback. The 12-18 month timeline is when I will retire. I am hoping to generate a small income to supplement my 401k / SS. I have not done a very good job planning for life after work.
I have read your reply twice now, and want to again thank you for your honesty. I could very well be holding onto a false idea, or at least, have been misled as to what may be possible. You are absolutely right with regards to time. I am definitely not one that wants to write against a deadline. I want to write for fun, and most of all, I want people to enjoy reading what I write. I think I may need a plan 'b' for the income, and do my writing just the way I been doing it, for fun. Thank you again, Bill.
Comment from Wetbelly01
Hey Dan, I'd like to find out about this possibility also...
So if you come across that "Honest" person, hopefully
you'd be willing to share... I'll be on the lookout also...
reply by the author on 12-Jan-2018
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Hey Dan, I'd like to find out about this possibility also...
So if you come across that "Honest" person, hopefully
you'd be willing to share... I'll be on the lookout also...
Comment Written 12-Jan-2018
reply by the author on 12-Jan-2018
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Thank you wetbelly. It is not looking too good right now, but I'll let you know if I find something worth shooting at.
