Insecure Writer's Support Group Post #2-- On Building Community

There is a lot of buzz lately (and by lately, I mean for the past five years or so) about whether or not eBooks and the internet will destroy, devalue, and otherwise eliminate the centuries old publishing tradition.

I think this change contributes to a lot of our insecurities as an industry. Things are changing massively and I often feel stuck in between two paradigms. On the one hand, I cannot seem to get my second book published, nor can I find an agent. In the old paradigm, this might indicate that my work is not marketable, or worse yet, that I am not talented. In the new paradigm, this could indicate much about agents and publishers that are too distracted by struggling to keep up with this incredible shift in the way they do business to continue sourcing amazing talent.

OK, the second is just what I tell myself to make it less hurtful.

But what I think we don't spend enough time focusing on is how this new world might make getting a commercial publisher harder, but it has made writing a much less solitary endeavor. Ten years ago, I would not have had the opportunity to know a myriad of wonderful fellow writers I met through the blogosphere. I wouldn't be able to share my insecurities, get reassurance, and reassure others without, if I was lucky, a trip to the local library, book club, or writer's center. And even then, I would only be interacting with people near me unless I was fortunate enough to get to BEA or Frankfurt.

At least 5 times a week, I am convinced that I should just give up on "trying to be a writer" and be happy with a good career. And at least 5 times a week, amazing writers and virtual connections remind me of all of the reasons why I want to keep working at getting my work out there (knowingly or unknowingly).

So I am insecure. A lot. And you all help me be less so. So a heartfelt thanks.