"Required reading" for today's smart writer.

"Required reading" for today's smart writer.
Information & inspiration to hone your craft and increase your cash...Since 2009

Friday, September 4, 2015

Give my Regards to Broadway...Why I'll Likely Never be Famous!


In this second chapter of my writing career, I have come to a sobering reality.
Though I've successfully published hundreds and hundreds of articles over the last two decades,
hob-nobbed with some important folks, have garnered numerous awards for my work, ghost written a few books, have a relatively broad knowledge base, and the discipline of a nun, I'll never be famous. At least not as a writer.

And I'm beginning to be okay with it. (Acceptance almost always makes things easier).
At this juncture, I've come to realize that everything that is "popular" or celebrated in our culture, is not necessarily of "excellence."

And quite frankly, in these changing times, the literary landscape is quite different than when I first embarked upon my journey.

We've condensed and distilled our communication down to 140 character "Tweets," text messages, and Instagrams. We've made powerful, engaging writing take a back seat to the size of one's platform and social media savvy. And sadly, a lot of good books and talented authors go unread and unnoticed.

More and more, it seems that those that get the "spotlight" today are:
  1. Those who court controversy (i.e. Donald Trump)
  2. Those who have outlandish gimmicks (i.e. Dennis Rodman marries himself)
  3. People who give "dysfunctional" a whole new meaning --------(fill in the blank)
  4. Those who garner attention through shock value (i.e. Miley Cyrus)
  5. People who have become famous by bedding famous people
  6. Those willing to sell their souls by exposing the dirty laundry of family and friends         
Of course, this is not to suggest that everyone fits in this category.
We have some immensely talented writers on the arts scene today, who truly deserve all the attention, accolades, and spoils they receive.

But, I think I'm running out of steam...and reality is replacing former pipe dreams.

For now, I'm abandoning my hopes of writing for fame and fortune, or the potential of being featured on a late night talk show. Heck, I can barely stay up late enough to watch them! :-)

For now, I'll write because I'm "famous" with the ladies at my mom's church and periodically at dinner parties.
I'll  write because I believe that I can make a difference.
I'll write because I believe it is my divine calling.
I'll write to keep myself sane and give inspiration to others.

I'll write because you continue to read.
And if fame comes along...well, that will just be icing on the cake.
And you know how I love cake!


Wishing you a great, safe holiday weekend!


.."A penny for your thoughts"

12 comments:

  1. Very good article! We are linking to this particularly great article on our website.
    Keep up the good writing.

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  2. Your observations serve to prove how low our society will go, but also how high we writers can climb. You are one of the best, and who needs "that" kind of fame? You have achieved tremendous success through your own efforts. Pat yourself on the back.

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    Replies
    1. Lin,

      You are so "one-derful"! People like you keep me motivated and moving forward. Thanks, my friend. :-)

      Delete
  3. I second everything said in comments above. As a newcomer to your blog, I see that we are kindred spirits seeking only to enjoy the craft of writing for the pure bliss of the writing. Getting rich was never my goal, but a little fame wouldn't have hurt but at 69, who am I kidding? Thanks for the refreshing post on Saturday morning!

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    Replies
    1. Sherrey,
      Welcome! Glad to have you join us here. Thanks so much for your time and input. Maybe I should clarify. Though I'm not seeking fame and fortune, I do seek compensation for my skills and knowledge. Cake costs money! :-)

      Delete
  4. I agree with Linda, you are one of the best! I think of you as famous - but the good and helpful kind. :)

    Never aspired to fame, really. It is nice to go to the grocery store and not get mobbed by the paparazzi, you know?

    Have a great weekend!

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  5. Karen,

    Your comment made me giggle. Thanks so much for the "richness" provided by your friendship and support! :-)

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  6. Jennifer (secretly) you're my lode star ...

    What you do with phrases, words and pause to build meaningful content reminds me why the written word is still the most powerful way available to effect change in the world.

    Keep it up ... I see and share everything you write with my peers in New York Real Estate.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Michael,

      You "get" me; I dig that. And I'm glad I've got you as one of my followers. :-) Thanks for your inspiring words. People like you are the reason I continue to write. Hope all is well in your corner of the world.

      Delete
  7. I really like your blog.. very nice colors & theme. Did you create this website yourself or
    did you hire someone to do it for you? Plz reply as I'm looking to create my own blog and would like to
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    My webpage: http://www.timesrealty.ru/user/EarnestineNir/ []

    ReplyDelete