nicolacan it really be this straightforward? i'd like to think.

I don't profess to having all the answers - although there have been past occasions where I have been convinced otherwise. more fool me. but that doesn't prevent me from sharing a deeply-embedded desire to group things. put it down to the editor in me.

So, as part of our upcoming Writers & Artists re-visioning in the autumn, I've been giving some serious thought as to whether there is a shape to the writers' journey and, if so, how to convey that. Visually, I guess it might start off with a writer sitting in some lowly garrett some place (ok, i'm clearly going with the romantic, parisian 1900s view), followed by the intrusion of others, followed by huge architectural plans scattered over a drawing board, followed by a handshake, followed by a podium and a cheering visual of a well-satisfied audience.

In more pragmatic terms, after talking with a few people besides the voice in my head, we've come up with the following groupings for those looking to take their writing all the way. ambitious? yes. presumptuous? perhaps. but here goes anyway.

Step 1 - Starting Out - 

This Writer is seeking orientation and direction. They have a passion and a talent for writing. They are open to learning and discovery.

Do any of the choices below sound like you?

  • You want to write and you’re keen to succeed but need to find out where to go and what to do

  • You have written informally for ages and want to take it to the next level

  • You have written half a book and recognise you need help

  • You have written informally for ages and just want to get on with it yourselves

The questions This Writer may be addressing vary from: where do they stand? How should they handle themselves as writers to get the best from the experience? What stage are they at and how to advance? Who should they approach and when? Who can they trust? And how much should they invest?

 This option is best suited for writers who wish to understand their destination before they pack up the car and venture too far into the unknown. It is for those whose time is valuable and who want to know ahead of time what they are getting into.

Step 2 - Half way there

This writer is working towards completion and regaining a sense of direction. They have amassed substantial material and require a more hands-on approach to their particular project. Your needs will vary: how to get back on track? What am I getting right? Am I getting anything right? When will I know I’m done? Am I ready?

Do any of the choices below sound like you?

  • You will have been writing for a while and have written at least 60,000 words of a book-length manuscript

  • You will have been writing for ages, are several drafts into your story and are grappling with the weight of your material

Step 3 - Selling your Story

You’re ready to take your book to market. 

Do any of the choices below sound like you?

  • You’ve completed a final draft of your manuscript, and are wondering how you approach the next phase of selling it in

  • You’ve completed a final draft of your manuscript, and want to be sure it is in tip-top shape before you move on to next phase.

Step 4 - After the Writing

After the writing comes self-promotion, marketing, contacts, contracts, working with a publishing team, learning to handle rejection and Starting Over.

 Do any of the choices below sound like you?

  • You’ve sent in your submission to countless agents and heard nothing positive in response. You want to understand what you can do differently, how you may have gone wrong and what your options are next

  • You’ve secured an agent but no publishing deal is forthcoming. How can you promote yourself better?

  • You’ve secured a publishing deal, now what can you be doing to ensure it reaches the widest possible audience.

in your opinions, how close is this to the mark? or how way off? the grouper in me needs editing.

 Nicola
(Editorial Manager)