August 3 question - When you set out to write a story, do you try to be more original or do you try to give readers what they want?
I wish I could cater more to what readers want, but if I don’t feel something in my bones, if
it doesn’t deeply interest me, my writing is flat. Since my interests are outside of the
mainstream, it means I am usually looking at indie publishing, whether self-publishing or
through a small publisher.
I am in awe of authors who write authentically but whose work hits the pulse of the times.
In AWE!! I loved Divergent, and The Hunger Games, and even the first Harry Potter book.
For me, I think my best hope is to keep expanding my field of interests, keep a “learner’s
mindset,” and trust that if I love what I write, someone else will too.
You have a beautiful website, Torrey! What beautiful work you do. Truly magnificent. Bravo! Never stop trying, my dear. Your work, your art matters in today's world. I'm sure of it. Have a beautiful weekend!
If you're not afraid of the voices within, you've nothing to fear from those without. Write first for yourself, second for accolades that quench like rain in the desert. I see from your impressive portfolio that you have two creative outlets - lucky you!
~ diedre
Not all of us can hit that big genre. I never have, even after five books. But that's all right.
I knew when I first started out with my writing, I'd never be a household name and I'd probably never pass a traditional publishing gatekeeper much for the same reasons you expressed. Trying to write to someone else's parameters just sucks the magic out of the bones.
I hope the pulse of the times rushes your way on occasion, that way you can write as you feel and it'll be a mainstream hit!
Loni Townsend (https://lonitownsend.com)