Into the Fire

So often when new contracts are issued to authors experiencing publishing for the first time with the real deal, we hear the words, “Never give up!” With veteran authors who’ve written innumerable contracted books and maintained a reputation in the ranks as being a consummate professional, we hear the words, “Never give up!” From those writers who’ve had that two or three book contract, met their obligations, and failed to net another contract because of slower sales, we hear the words, “Never give up!”

We hear those words from other sources, too. Their intent is valuable when applied appropriately.

So what is “appropriately”? Well . . . we can be wrong. I can’t determine what you should keep doing because it’s between the Lord and you. I can be impressed by your abilities and encourage you to continue on to wherever the Lord takes you. I can hope for the same from you. But what if you or I have assumed we have talent where we don’t?

Writers come in all mindsets. There are those who think with a business-like attitude: “The professionals are always right. I need to mold my writing into what they perceive will sell.” Others might think they can be versatile, but they will fight for certain pieces of their work. And still others believe without a doubt that the very words on the pages of their novels are non-negotiable. Then somewhere in between those another group resides.

One thing I’ve learned from the professionals . . . Writing talent isn’t always a prerequisite to publishing. Perseverance is. Especially if you’re the writer without a platform and nothing outstanding to sell yourself other than your words. No built in audience of merit. Oh, I know. They continue to declare, “Good writing trumps everything.” But all you must do to disprove this statement is read a few of the mainstream ABA or CBA novels and ask this question: If this is true, why then do most novels not earn back their advances?! And what does that really mean in terms of what gets published?

So what am I saying? I’m saying there are writers who will only accept validation if it comes via royalty publishing. They continue to pursue that avenue with a fierceness, and if they have a shred of talent, they will most likely be rewarded with a contract someday. I’m also saying there are writers who want to bow out after two or three rejections even though rejections are the name of the game in the beginning of the race to publication. And I’m also saying that there are writers who will not give up on writing regardless of the circumstances providing God has told them to continue. His desires for them overwhelm all other concerns, and they will faithfully put words together as long as He likes, and that is precisely why they are not giving up. Please count me in this final group.

God, you know the plans you have for me. I must trust you above all others and obey. No matter what. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.