We also research our markets, buy the Writer’s Market, attend workshops and conferences (when able to), and read books in the genre we’re interested in publishing in. While we might tell a favorite writer how she’s influenced us, we would never expect that writer to let us ride in on her proverbial coattails. While someone may get us in the door, we have to prove ourselves with the quality of our work.

One of the lessons I’ve learned from screenwriting is to never write what is popular now because no one can predict the box office. The idea is to write what we love because we want to. And getting a screenplay optioned or sold is just as difficult a process as getting a book published. That is an industry where one needs a reference or two.

As for those writers who think that this occupation is easy, well no, it isn’t. (And I’m preaching to the choir here.) I can understand your frustration and I empathize with you, but again, not all of us assume that this is some easy-peasy job. (I read that phrase somewhere and just can’t remember where. If it was here, my apologies! *grin*) And those who think it is will soon find out different.

But here’s the good news. Those same “friends” will probably quit the writing biz because it’s so difficult. Once they’re gone, the rest of us will still be working toward our goal. Hopefully, we’ll join your ranks one day with published works of our own. (Okay, okay, we might be a step below, but we promise to do our best!)

Sorry for the long post. Let me just add that, while I haven’t experienced what Fae Sutherland and others have regarding writing/publishing, I have dealt with people who expect me to fix their computer problems when they don’t even do such simple maintenance as defrag their hard drives. But that’s a whole different topic.

Take care!