The Writers' Lounge

I'm going to start by saying 'for the love of all that's holy, don't use me an example for anything'. Ahem.

My two cents: yes, if you want to see a piece published, you have to take some things into account, whether it's stylistic rules like the show vs. tell principle, or including the requisite amount of bare flesh to market your mystery novel as a romantic thriller (*nonchalant whistle*). But, you should never be in the position of writing by-the-numbers, simply to fulfil a submission call. I strongly believe you need to have at least a core in your work that you know, believe and love. That sounds a bit happy-clappy (blame the cider), but I think it's an issue of integrity. It's not a case of 'writing what you know', but knowing about what you write.

As to the market itself, broadly speaking, I've found that the bigger the publisher, the more they are run by accountants. Especially with current economic conditions, big houses don't really seem interested in risks. An example: Stieg Larsson's books sold well, so we saw a raft of authors marketed as Larsson-likes (Jo Nesbo, and a couple of others I can't currently remember, which is embarrassing.), yet Scandinavian mystery/detective/thriller fiction has been defined as a genre in its own right for years.

The changes we are seeing now in publishing - the rise of ebooks, and the opportunities given to indie and small presses by ecommerce and social media - mean it's easier than it used to be to find a small press who will support you as a new author. Personally, I consider that a more productive use of a writer's time than papering their walls with 'we love your work, but we don't think you're very global' notes from large pubs. (Yes, my grapes of wrath are showing. I shall tuck them back in. *grin*) It doesn't net you big contracts, but there are people who are able to make a meagre living, especially in certain genres. It also grants greater freedom and flexibility, so the cookie-cutter aspects of publishing don't tend to come into force.

For me, I just enjoy the act and the process of writing, regardless of genre or function. I have been fortunate in that I've found readers enjoy the more lyrical end of my prose, so when I write for publication, I emphasise what I know people have liked. Equally, sometimes you have to just go with what you want to write, and screw the rules. They are, after all, made to be broken... but only if you know which way to bend them first.

I have no experience with film and very little with music, though that's much like indie authoring, as I understand. More freedom, smaller profits. On the plus side, no contractual obligations, and fewer irritating label people. I will cease waffling now. ;)