Someone asked me what challenges writers face. My gosh, the list is endless. I’ll name the one that I’m sure plagues every artist and writer. In fact Somerset Maugham wrote in Moon and Sixpence, that the biggest stumbling block of every artist is doubt. That statement surprised me coming from such an amazing writer as Maugham. I suppose I thought I was the only one who doubted myself.
But, how can you not doubt yourself when rejections outnumber acceptances by 10 t 1 (if you’re lucky!). Many a talented and successful author talks about how many rejections he or she got before someone noticed his or her work. It is a huge challenge to keep going with a sense of confidence when so many people tell you that your work is not “for them.”
The writers who finally succeed, however, are the ones who ignore these rejections and move forward. I remember Michael Critchton saying he had seven books ready to go by the time his first was accepted for publication. He told a reporter, “Amid the rejections, I kept writing.” Therein lies the challenge.
Some people say we must find the right home for our work. It takes time and persistence to do that. Others decide to self-publish, giving up on anyone recognizing their talent. (Many self-published writers went on to be published by a big house once readers had a chance to see their work). Finding the right home at the right time.
In fact the actual writing of the literary piece be it a novel, short story or poem is less work than the marketing and publishing phase. Generally writers hate that part. I can’t imagine how many Somerset Maughams may be out there who gave up and whose work may never see the light of day. It makes me sad.
What is the biggest challenge? Overcoming your doubts and persisting even when all odds tell you there’s no hope. That is my biggest challenge as a writer. What’s yours?
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Joan…. doubt is probably my biggest as well. But not because of the rejections received from others, but more so the uncertainty I will feel, when my writing is not coming together for me. I then get frustrated with the idea that maybe I am not a good storyteller.
I do push through it though…but will get stuck in place for some time. Aghhhhhh…
Bernadette