The hardest thing about being an independent author is easily the marketing. I love the actual writing, and as I've said in the past I really love working with artists. While I enjoy talking about my book, particularly with fans, I don't like doing so in a way that doesn't feel organic. This is probably why I cannot make twitter work. So, I'm trying to be creative when it comes to finding ways to share my story with potential readers. Since we are still pretty much in quarantine, I've been unable to go around to libraries and books stores, and conventions are not really an option. However, I recently had a really cool opportunity. I was asked by a teacher to help with a virtual creative writing class for 5th-8th graders. It was a great experience and allowed me to talk about my book and some general thoughts on story crafting. I thought I'd share the video Now before anyone rips on me, I am very aware I'm awkward on camera. And sometimes off camera...But besides allowing me to speak about my book, I really thought this was a great opportunity to share what humble insight I have into the writing process. Particularly as it relates to my last point in the video.
I always had this idea that writers were just born with almost magically infinite supplies of creativity, and being an author essentially meant tapping into this inspiring force of imagination and writing what comes out in an almost prophetic way. Now to be clear some people are just born with great imaginations, but the reality is creativity is a skill that can be learned. In the video, I compare it to a muscle that can be strengthened with regular use. Furthermore, creativity alone won't get you that far. Being able to come up with a great idea is wonderful, but crafting that idea into story, much less a book requires a hard work and discipline. I say all of this to drive home the fact that if you want to be a writer you can be. It's a matter of consistent effort more than anything else. I find that truly encouraging. I hope you do too.
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AuthorMy name is Jake Nickens. I'm a husband, dog owner, and Author of The Thin House. Archives
November 2021
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