Dichotomy Is Easy, and Easily Dismissed

[blairmacg]

Crossposted at Blair MacGregor Books.

Or, “What I Learned Upcoming Writers At 4th Street Want To Know About Indie Publishing.”

Last weekend was for 4th Street Fantasy, and not even the thief who stole my driver’s license and debit card on Saturday could dull my overall enjoyment.  In addition to attending great panels and having fantastic writerly

Comments

[queenoftheskies]

The times I was sitting with you when you struck up those conversations, I was amazed how many people knew absolutely nothing about self-publishing.

I mean, I don't know a lot, but I at least have a number of friends who self-publish and therefore am exposed to some aspects of the business.

[blairmacg]

It was an interesting experience, wasn't it?

I found it also made a difference if I mentioned indie publishing in a large group or a smaller group. The latter brought out conversation much more.

My hope is there will be enough curiosity raised for more folks to risk -- and in some cases, it is still (sadly!) a social risk -- seeking information on ALL the options writers have!

[queenoftheskies]

What would really be nice would be for conventions to take a chance and offer some programming on self-publishing. The danger in that, though, is that it would need to be professionals of your caliber in order to make it really useful for people who wanted the information in order to make a serious decision about the future of their writing.

[blairmacg]

I wouldn't consider myself the best candidate for the panels; there is still so much *I* still want to learn! :) But what I can do is stand in the middle of the mess, give general directions, and point folks toward resources.

And I know some cons offer self-publishing panels, but I've seen so little beyond the pro/con or "Is it right for you?" sort of thing. Forex, it would be nice to have a "Good Sales Copy" panel alongside the "Good Query Letter" offering.

[marycatelli]

"Being responsible for cover art is terrifying or thrilling. "

That's an inclusive OR, folks.

[blairmacg]

Yes!!