More on Writing for nothing. Is money just the icing on the cake?
I’ve just found another quote about writing for nothing and I thought it would be a good companion to Mark Twain’s comment made a century or so ago. It is from another American, Brian Doyle, writing recently in The American Scholar. The son of a journalist, he is the editor of Portland magazine at the University of Portland and the author of Mink River.
…Also get a job; eating is a good habit and you will never make enough of a living as a writer to support a family. Be honest with yourself about the size of your gift. Expect no money but be diligent about sending pieces out for publication. All money is gravy…
Should you write for nothing? Would you? Do you?
photo credit: @Doug88888 via photopin cc
6 comments on “More on Writing for nothing. Is money just the icing on the cake?”
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BRIDGET WHELAN writer 
I have a job. My gift is not enormous, but I try and nurture it. A little gravy is better than a lot of the stuff, because then it´s easier to do without, especially since I haven´t really factored gravy into my diet. I write to be read. If I touch someone, I´m happy.
Sorry not to have replied before – must be a glitch in the system (or me). Writing to be read strikes a chord with me as I’m sure it must do with many other writers.
Love mblobs comment, I have always written about things I feel passionate about and was lucky enough to sell some if it. . Now write all the time for nothing but when I get ‘hits I guess I’ve touched someone and I am happy too.
I think luck can play a part in this as you hint at Ann. I often feel that writers & actors have a lot in common – talent, ability & an inner emotional truth won’t necessarily win through in commercial terms unless you also happen to be in the right place at the right time/have the right look or subject for that season…but writers still need readers just as actors need an audience…
A lot of gravy will never be on my plate, Ann, and the little I may indulge in is quickly digested. The touch, though, lingers, as you also know. Thanks for your comment.
thanks for the follow and u r my 100th follower, i thank u for the support