Sometimes, I read blogs from agents that touch on issues of how writers should behave. I smile when I read the comments on those posts, most of which are from aspiring writers. A majority of the commenters have no personal experience of what kind of things take place behind the scenes in publishing, so their comments sometimes sound like this: "DUH! Of course I'm going to be easy to work with and get along with everyone. Who are these idiot writers you're talking about?" They seem to have the impression that contracted writers run around like opera divas, having tantrums for no reason and being completely arrogant.I don't know a single contracted writer who acts like that. I suppose there may be some divas out there, but for the most part, the contracted writers I know work their tails off, try their very best to get along, and are humble, down-to-earth people.
It is highly unlikely that most working novelists would ever believe that we are geniuses of some kind. Instead, we have to tell ourselves why it's OK that we can never measure up! As writers, our lifestyle is one of receiving criticism, all the time. Our novels go through round after round of criticism, and editors don't have time to sugarcoat their comments or to worry about whether writers are getting enough positive reinforcement. It's true that many writers get positive feedback from readers. The praise of readers matters a great deal and soothes some of the pain of the process, but it doesn't erase our knowledge of our own shortcomings.
In addition, most writers are working very hard for very little money. Most writers are either working second jobs or raising children at home (sometimes homeschooling) while they write their novels.
Does this work ethic and ability to take constant criticism sound like anything the average diva could survive? Not to me! LOL! The longer I spend in this business, the more I respect writers for their endurance and grace under less than ideal conditions.
What do you think? have you known writers who displayed clear, inarguable evidence of diva-like attitudes? Or do you know the same humble, hardworking people I do?
9 comments:
Unfortunately, I know both--but I know a lot more of the non-diva, hard-working, nice-to-be-around group than the others, thank goodness.
Thankfully, I've come across the same lot you have. I have bumped into a few whom I suspect might be diva-esque in their handlings, but I don't know enough to say for sure.
~ Wendy
I personally only know a few published writers and they are humble, hard working people I admire.
It seems that personally or online, I only know the humble hard-working folks. I've heard tell of a few divas, but have not seen them in action. It's probably just all petty talk.
I love this post, because I've always been a bit stupified over the diva-stereotype. Because like you, I've never personally run into any. All the writers I know are, like you said, humble and hardworking and trying to be very low-maintenance.
Richard, I'm not surprised that with your wide network, you can't avoid encountering a few divas! But it's encouraging to hear that more are kind and unassuming. My guess is that more of the divas are writers who find outstanding commercial success and thus may be catered to by pretty much everyone around them, including publishing professionals. Most writers do not receive such catering. :-) But that's for the best, as constant flattery and indulgence is not good for the soul. However, some of the best spiritual examples are very successful writers who do get star treatment and still remain gracious and generous.
Wendy - Same here. Though I may have caught a whiff of heavy attitude once or twice, I won't attach labels without truly knowing a person.
TC, Loree, and Katie - Glad to hear your experience with other writers has also been so positive!
Good point, Rosslyn. I suppose the diva-like qualities are less likely in our circles (at least hopefully they are) because of the light of Christ. But I'm sure exceptions exist in any circle. :)
Sarah, I do think faith has some effect and helps to block a tendency to puff up one's ego. But we all know people who go to church who don't seem to apply what they hear, and the same will be true of any faith-based group or endeavor! :-)
Dear Rosslyn,
This post makes me realize how easy us unpublished writers have it (in comparison). We have supportive friends and colleagues who always "sugar-coat" their comments and no pressure to write under a deadline (as we set them ourselves.) In a way, we're spoiled (I guess I'd better enjoy this stage, ha!)
I suppose that if you are a big time bestselling author, you probably have more power and can get away with more, but I imagine that they must also have times of insecurity and self-doubt (who doesn't?)
A great, thought-provoking post!
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