What were they thinking?
Have you ever wondered that as you plowed through a much-anticipated novel and it not lived up to your expectations?
On the other hand, maybe your reaction was one of elation.
Wow! Annie Author hit it out of the park again!
Since Heartfelt, Homespun Fiction is my tagline, I’m keenly aware that’s what my readers will expect. It’s what I write. It also says something about me as a person.
And because I write heartfelt, homespun (Christian) fiction, obviously, there are certain perceptions attached to that. It’s safe to say you’ll never see slasher scenes or certain other elements in my stories. I believe in keeping it real just as much as the next author–within the scope of what it is I write.
I think for writers it’s necessary we adopt a personal philosophy. If we’re committed to furthering our craft, we should be aware of what our intentions are.
We wouldn’t stumble head-on into oncoming traffic with a blindfold on would we? Doesn’t it make sense to think about where we see our writing headed?
We need to have a firm grasp on the types of stories we want to tell, how we want to tell them, and not deviate from our vision. That’s not to say that we shouldn’t be aware of the changing market or what drives sales. Those are necessary tools in evaluating success and good indicators of what people are reading (and buying). On the other hand, to pander to ideals or concepts solely because they’re popular may stymie our growth and inhibit who we are as authors. We could lose authenticity, and worse, credibility.
How, then, should our writing define us?
- It should reveal our integrity. We should remain true to our voice, true to our genre, and true to the nature of Christ. To admire our favorite authors is one thing; to mimic them will never work. Why? Because we’re all unique. We can’t be cloned. (Although modern science may attempt it!)
- It should establish identity. Readers should associate our name with our tagline and brand. They should know what they’ll get ahead of time. Anticipating apple pie and ice cream makes our mouths water. Getting a slice of rhubarb might leave our readers cold. Think of it this way, too: Surprises we wake up to on Christmas morning are fun. Unexpected trips to the doctor’s office? Not so much.
- It should invite interaction. Great writing draws readers in. It involves them from the first sentence on the first page. They’re no longer a guest at the party. They’re the main character who’s the life of the party!
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As you write, what do you think your writing says about you?
As a reader, if a book doesn’t meet your expectations, are you still willing to read the same author a second time?
Photo Credit: Dr Joseph Valks/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Blessings Always,
Comments 10
I think my readers will come to expect and anticipate fun, humor, romance and most importantly…HOPE. That’s my tag. Experience Hope
This was a wonderful post, friend! Good points.
Author
Jess, I absolutely experience hope (and joy and humor and countless other things) when I read your posts, so I’ve no doubt that your novels will deliver, too!
I’m not sure what readers will think about my work. I’ll be eager to see. My hope is that they enjoy the story and feel they didn’t waste their money. =)
Author
Keli, people will flock to your stories! You won’t be able to write them fast enough. And don’t forget to wear your lovely Victorian gown during your booksignings!
Great post, Cynthia! Yes, so hard to nail down your brand when you’re as-yet-unpubbed…I was finally able to figure it out (as well as my target audience). But I keep thinking, what if I want to do a YA someday and veer from women’s fiction? What if, what if… I agree totally, though. An author’s personality/worldview must shine through whatever vehicle they choose as genre.
Author
Heather, I think people want to know what they can expect from a specific author, but I certainly think it’s possible (once established) to explore other genres while still finding success in others, as well. I believe, perhaps, the key lies in finding a new audience while continuing to strike a chord with your faithful followers of previous genres. Like you indicated, your “voice” must continue to resonate.
Great thoughts!
As I write, I don’t always think about what it says about me…now you got me thinking 🙂
I’m always willing to give an author a second chance. I can think of a handful of writers whose novels got better and better with each one.
Author
Loree, many years ago, I explored the idea of writing mainstream fiction. It just wasn’t for me. I didn’t want to compromise on values and content for the sake of what was “hot” at the moment. (No pun intended.) When I fully gave my work to Christ (much like you had described once) that’s when God began opening doors. Christian fiction, I found, wasn’t limiting–it was liberating! I’d found my voice.
And I would agree, I believe many authors just keep getting better over time as they learn their craft.
I hope that my writing shows the evidence of God’s fingerprints in one way or another.
If a book doesn’t meet my expectations, the author may not get another chance. There are too many books available from which to choose.
Author
Patti, your comment almost slipped under my radar…
It’s obvious that you walk with Jesus. I so appreciate your inspiring posts and photos.