Self-publishing and ebooks do not create a level playing field for writers

[JDNuvo]

I published a book of poetry only to get ripped off by the publisher. On the bright side, my friends and family enjoyed having a book in their hand. Does anyone know how to be a properly published poet? Thanks.

[cbmtrx]

As with everything in this day and age "Level playing field" simply means "more access by more contributors". It doesn't imply better quality, but it does imply a richer pool from which to draw. Some good, some bad.

[Dreamsex101]

I cant understand English anymore lol

[muskndusk]

Trad publishing isn't as easy or as profitable as you think. If you get an agent who finds a publisher, your agent will take 10-15% of everything you earn, which is only 10% of the cover price. With epublishing, such as through SmashWords, the only "technical knowledge" you need is how to use Word. Their cut is only about 10%, which is the same for most POD houses if you prefer to publish paper versions, or both. Self publishing is a much better option, apart from ideas of quality reg.

[iainbroome]

@muskndusk Not sure I ever said that anything was easy or profitable and I have an agent, so I'm fully aware of how it all works. My point is specifically about technology and to suggest that all you need to know is Word is a bit disingenuous. That might get you published, but to make is 'the much better option', you need to market your work and promote is relentlessly. It's doable, of course, and great for many people, but it's by no means a walk in the park.

[HowFarAreWeNow]

I've been writing for 6 months now and still can't figure out what the best option is for publishing. How in the world would I even get noticed, self-publishing? House Publishing firms generate marketing campaigns for their writers with book tours, media interviews, internet advertising etc. If you're a first time author and don't have a lot of money, wouldn't it be wiser to go with the muscle instead of throwing your self-made e-book on Amazon for a few bucks? I

[AZstarwatcher]

@HowFarAreWeNow Have you ever dealt with a publisher? I have and the experience left me wondering why there is order in the world (because we should be at each other's throats). I self-published through Amazon and Lulu, but then I have lots of energy and at least 20 free websites where I advertise.

[HowFarAreWeNow]

@AZstarwatcher How are your sales, if you don't mind me asking?

[Jude2Mahoney]

@HowFarAreWeNow You'll lose copyright control, artistic direction and take a tiny fraction of whatever royalties you could potentially earn via a trad publisher. There are pro's and con's with either avenue. As has already been pointed out, a level playing field refers to more people being given the chance to publish work they've written. The public ought to be able to decide what sells and what doesn't, not trad publishers. In my first month I had a little over 50 sales.

[HowFarAreWeNow]

@Jude2Mahoney ..the tide is turning, for sure. Good job on the sales.

[shyvixx1]

I was listening to your video. But I could not help but you look at your beautiful eyes and accent! you are super cute!

[solidust23]

@shyvixx1 oh really thank you. you too are very pretty i like you red eyes:)

[Barbieflygerian]

.candystreet.co.uk

[hharch]

There's no such thing as a level playing field in any aspect of human endeavour, so the premise is faulty to begin with. I agree with Glendon that self-publishing creates a new playing field altogether. The old guard are hopping made about the prospect of their racket coming to an end. This new playing field is bringing the same benefits the printed book brought when it revolutionized the spread of learning in 1436, freeing up knowledge and expression. Diversity rules from now on, yes!!

[Glendon007]

I agree, self publishing does not create a level playing field, it has created a new playing field all together! In many ways this is like the wild wild west, the rules of engagement are dark and murky.

On my first self published four books I have made enough money to to live on, within two years. Withstanding all of the mistakes I made, which in its self is pretty damn remarkable. I make more money than several of my friends with book deals ( many are trying to escape those deals!)