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

In this episode on http://writeforyourlife.net Iain looks at the rise of ebooks and questions whether they make all things equal for writers.

Category:

People & Blogs

Tags:

• writing
• ebooks
• literature
• iPad
• Kindle
• self-publishing
• technology

[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.

[solidust23]

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

[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.

[HowFarAreWeNow]

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

[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]

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

[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.

[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