If You Want To…
Make Money As An Author
…It’s MORE Than Okay
I was attacked this week by an author…
Not an uppercut to the jaw, but something more sophisticated… words. Yep, a full blown assault on the comments section of my YouTube account (don’t bother going there to check it out because I deleted it – not the account, but the comment).
It was basically a rude and long-winded rambling by a frustrated writer (so I’ll spare you most of it). Here’s the important bit:
Mark, I’m sure that your blog will help lots of people who want to write and sell books based in commercial formula (i.e., how to create “fresh” versions of stuff that sold yesterday). But for anybody in what I still have to call the serious literary world, it’s a formula for what’s often called “tree killers”—books that only simulate actual reading, consume forests full of pulp and are gone into the shredder (where they belong) before you can blink… So, all in all, your advice seems great if you’re a literary profiteer with a businessman’s non-grasp of cultural and human history and whose reason for writing is first and last money.
After reading this rant I did what any other red-blooded Italian-American man would do. I thought (ever so briefly) about sending my boy Guido to take care of him. You know, smack ‘em around a little bit and teach him some respect.
Instead, I wrote him a thoughtful and heartfelt (and brutally honest) reply, one that I’d be able to use as the foundation for an article (this one), to help you…
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Make Money As An Author
Here’s the reply that I sent (without the pictures):
Dear Writer:
You’re right that my blog is slanted toward thinking commercially (how to make money as an author), but… my POV isn’t about being inauthentic, unoriginal, or following a specific commercial formula. It’s about finding commercial success. And there are a lot of different ways to do that. As you know, many literary writers have found commercial success and figured out how to make money as an author.
I think the real issue here, triggered by you seeing my YouTube video or however you found me, is the motivation behind why we all do what we do. Here’s how I see it… all writers, whether they know it or not (and, whether they like it or not) are destined to live their entire lives atop a see-saw.
On one side of the see-saw… complete focus on writing (separate from any thoughts about publication, recognition, and/or how to make money as an author).
On the other side… complete focus on publication, recognition, and commercial success (how to make money as an author).
Most writers choose (consciously or subconsciously) to sit on one side or the other.
I try to sit in the middle.
Starting out as a writer (in college) I focused mostly on my writing… immersed in the pure, idealist, romantic bliss of creation… because I was young and just getting started as a writer and needed to learn my craft (at the time, love poetry).
As I started getting older, maturing, and I got married with more financial responsibilities… my writing started losing a little of its luster. Don’t get me wrong. It was still fun and deeply rewarding but… it wasn’t ENOUGH by itself anymore.
I felt like I was supposed to do more… like, make money as an author… that I’d be incomplete or not living my destiny if I didn’t also get my books out to the world… and also make some money in the process. To be honest, I always felt like I was supposed to get my writing out there and make money as an author. But those feelings started getting stronger as I started working for other people after college… doing things I wasn’t passionate about.
Boring…
Now I can’t imagine living a life without having BOTH things… not just inspired writing, but ALSO recognition and making money as an author. And… I have the added pleasure of helping other authors who share the same values (who also “want it all”).
Am I selling out, or being smart and embracing my destiny?
You decide.
However, I believe that God (or some other divine power with more insight than myself) is the only one that really knows the answer.
That’s why I don’t judge anyone if they don’t want the same things that I want. Writing is hard enough. And writers should be more supportive of each other. Plus, everyone has a right to their opinion in my book… as long as they’re nice about it.
It sounds like you’re a really knowledgeable expert who is both talented and frustrated. I know it’s disheartening to realize that you might have to put just as much time and energy into marketing your writing as you did creating it (I know I’m overstating it, but that’s because I know how it feels).
To make matters worse, it’s even more disheartening because there’s no guarantee that (after going to the ends of the earth) you’ll get the recognition you deserve or ever make money as an author. Plus, based on what you told me about your publishing past… you’ve already been burned.
That’s why it’s called The Hero’s Journey.
Seriously…
I’ve been playing with words most of my life and I still read “self-help books” for writers. The last one I read was just a few weeks ago, called The War of Art by Steven Pressfield. You’re probably already familiar with it, and (since we seem to have distinctly different points of view), there’s a good chance you won’t like it.
But, I thought I’d mention it anyway… just in case.
By the way, in your comment you bashed a movie (Cowboys and Aliens) that I used in an article as an example of a high-concept premise. You said “Cowboys and Aliens is great stuff if you’re 8 years old or in a nursing home.” I haven’t seen the movie (at least not yet, I’ll have to look and see if it got good reviews).
But that wasn’t the point.
This is…
Just because something has a high-concept premise doesn’t mean it isn’t good. And just because something DOES have a high-concept premise doesn’t mean it’s good.
Same thing goes for literary fiction.
I love reading beautiful prose, stylistically written, that’s more complex than most of what’s being published today commercially. But a lot of literary authors put too much emphasis on style and not enough on story.
Back on the see-saw…
Weighing the balance between what we think our writing should be… and what we think lots of people are willing to line up and pay for.
I don’t see a right or wrong here.
What I DO see is an opportunity for introspection, tolerance, and balance. Taking it a step further (if you want to make money as an author), this isn’t just an opportunity…
It’s a necessity.
I’m sorry that your publishing career hasn’t gone the way you’d hoped (at least, not yet). All I know is that you (and I, and everyone else) can only focus on what we have control over… and act on that.
Decide, right now, to figure out how you can be YOU… and find commercial success.
Or, let the writing go (along with the anger).
Yes, I’m a literary opportunist and profiteer (sort of). I’d never describe myself that way, but I don’t have a problem with you using that language. Money is indeed part of what motivates me, and it’s an important part.
Writing is an art, publishing is a business.
The way I look at it…
If I don’t have at least one foot in reality (and make smart, bottom-line, practical decisions), I’m not a writer.
I’m a fool.
So…
I refuse to let my writing be a “hobby” (not that there’s anything wrong with that… it’s just wrong for me).
Perhaps the hardest question to face as an author (or any other kind of expert) is this: “What good is all my passion and expertise if I can’t find a way to reach more people with my message?”
If you’re writing for yourself and/or close friends and family, your writing (alone) should be enough. But, if you’re as frustrated as you are, it’s obviously not.
So…
I hope you take this email from me as one thing and one thing only (because that’s what it’s meant to be), simply… encouragement.
I never met another human being (especially a writer) who couldn’t use another dose.
Wishing you all the best,
Mark Malatesta
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Make Money As An Author: Conclusion
Now, you’re probably wondering what happened next…
Did I get a response? What did the disgruntled writer say? Did this story have a happy ending?
Here’s the reply that I got:
Thanks for taking the time to let me know more of your point of view, and I wish you good fortune.
Not the response I was looking for.
I wanted to help my “literary brother” have an authorial awakening. But I don’t think it’s ever going to happen. Mr. Snarky is probably never going to join my Literary Agent Undercover community or become an evangelist for my work.
That’s okay…
I knew what I was getting myself into when I replied to the comment.
And the main reason that I did it is because I knew that I was also going to share it with you.
Yes, YOU…
Someone who wants to make money as an author (and isn’t afraid to say it)… even though I know that you might sometimes get frustrated with the publishing process, too).
But you CAN make money as an author (just be patient and persistent).
And I hope you’ll leave your feedback in the comment section below.
You can even disagree… with my POV.
Just be nice,
Mark Malatesta
Your “Undercover” Agent
P.S. – If you want to get published and make money as a writer, read my article How to Write a Bestseller.
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MARK MALATESTA is a former literary agent turned author coach. Mark now helps authors of all genres (fiction, nonfiction, and children's books) get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals through his company 
MARK MALATESTA is a former literary agent turned author coach. Mark now helps authors of all genres (fiction, nonfiction, and children's books) get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals through his company 
I didn’t see that you answered the question “How do you make money as a
writer” –please direct me to the proper website if I missed it. I for one am looking for work as a copywriter doing internet advertizing copy, web pages, blogs, etc.
Any suggestions would be great!
Jean Vives
Hi Jean, I meant as a published author with a traditional publishing house… nothing else… as that’s my specialty. 🙂
Sorry for the confusion,
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
http://markmalatesta.com
The Bestselling Author
https://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Dear Mark,
I thought your answer was fair and balanced and true. By the time I finished your response I had forgotten what he had written/what he was so upset about in the first place, and instead gleaned the good vibes and wisdom from your response. I agree with Tessa that patience and persistence is what matters.
Hi Richard! Apologies for the delay… I’m slow to respond this month due to the holidays. Thank you for your kind and thoughtful comment. You just made my evening. Sending you more good vibes and wishing you a merry (and successful) holiday season. Mark
Wow Mark, I’m speechless reading this Mr. Snarky reply turned article. It was great, the article was awesome and sort of timely because I was feeling overwhelmed by a response I received on a query I didn’t like. Actually, you’re on point on everything you wrote, your POV and the true insight on the business of publishing. Technically, frustration doesn’t do the trick neither does anger do the magic, what every writer needs is patience and to master the act of publishing as a business and to also exercise persistence. I’m a writer at heart and would love to get appreciated.
Thanks again for the article, so timely.
Hi Tessa,
You just made my morning and, unless something great happens in the next 24 hours, you will have made my day… glad you enjoyed the article… and thank you for taking time out of your day to say so. Like you said, it’s so easy to turn one’s frustration and disappointment into something less than productive… but… well… that’s simply… less than productive. I appreciate your positive spirit… and I know that many other people who read your response here will as well. Thanks for posting it.
And…
Don’t miss out on my upcoming Q&A CALLL that I’ll be doing live with authors on Saturday, Nov. 21st. You can listen online and/or ask questions. See how you can participate here at http://thebestsellingauthor.com/radio-show/. Would love to see you there if you can make it, but no stress if you can’t. 🙂
Have a great day!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
My writing evolves from ideas that come to me. One was a
helpful list book that I was sure people would benefit from.
Other writing was for various educational ideas that would help
teachers. My latest is a illustrated book for children to enjoy reading. I didn’t think about making money on these books, but was more interested in having people read what I wrote to use and/or enjoy. I’m a retired teacher and do not
plan another career. However, If I do sell my book that would be awesome…A Plus
Hi Darlene, I’m looking forward to our upcoming call… going to look at your list book before then as well. Didn’t tell you that earlier but it’s on my agenda. 🙂 And yes, writing from the heart is always a good thing. But it’s also wonderful when authors get their work out there in a bigger way… and who knows… maybe make money doing it. You never know what’s possible until you try. Have a great weekend and see you soon.
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
I think you handled that beautifully, Mark. Bravo!
Thank you Sue, and always good to hear from you. 😉
Have a great weekend!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Mark: Thank you for your informative and enlightened views expressed in your news letter. I’ve written my first book, a fiction based on current events and I truly enjoyed writing the process of writing. In fact, it almost wrote itself so I can’t express an opinion regarding the literary aspect. I doubt if I ever win a prize, I just want monetary reward. At 70 years old I deserve it and I have stories galore. Unfortunately, no one appears to wish to hear them. Any suggestions?
Thank you Terry, and I hope you’re having a good weekend…
Although you haven’t gotten what you want just yet, the good news is that you can often get a drastically different response by tweaking or changing your pitch materials.
My favorite example of this is one of my coaching clients who’d pitched her favorite “dream” agent three times over the course of two years. Rejections every time. After I helped her rewrite her query letter, she approached the same agent a fourth time and he requested the full manuscript. So don’t get too discouraged. You might just be a few changes away from getting what you want. As a next step, check out http://query-letter.com if you haven’t seen it yet… and/or consider signing up for a coaching call with me (info below) so I can review your material.
If I can help you with anything else let me know, but I want to make sure you know that I’m a former agent. Today I’m a coach and consultant helping authors get top agents, publishers, and book deals. To that end, I have several websites devoted to helping authors get a top literary agent, publisher, and book deal. You can see a complete list here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/websites/.
Plus…
Don’t miss out on my upcoming Q&A CALLL that I’ll be doing live with authors on Saturday, Nov. 21st. You can listen online and/or ask questions. See how you can participate here at http://thebestsellingauthor.com/radio-show/. Would love to see you there if you can make it.
Also…
If you haven’t already done so, click here now for access to all the valuable resources in my private, members-only area (no charge): http://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address, click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (and text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.
I’m also happy to answer any questions that you have online here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/. And, if you’re serious and believe we’re a good fit, you can register for an introductory coaching call with me here (there is a fee for that): http://thebestsellingauthor.com/coaching/intro-call/.
Either way, I’m looking forward to learning more about you and your work… and I’ll point you in the right direction.
Have a great weekend!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Well said, Coach! I find that when I am writing, all focus is on the project itself, no time for outside thoughts. I have a burning desire to express myself and perhaps say something meaningful and helpful along the way. However, my decision to become a member of your community was based on a desire, not only to express myself in the best way possible, but perhaps to be profitable at the same time. I consider that the icing on the cake. A Win-Win!
Your “Literary Agent Undercover” Evangelist
Hi Vickie, I love it…
Why not have it all, if we can?
Have a great weekend!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Hey Mark,
I just wanted to say that was a really over-the-top nice and mature way of responding to this other author. It sounds like you wrote it knowing the feeling of wanting to write “purely” as an art, with no gross ideas of money or business, but realizing you can’t do that if you want to have a real career as an author (e.g., Murakami). I’ve felt the same way in the past, so thanks for sharing this.
It’s weirdly liberating to realize there’s no shame in wanting your books to make money.
Thank you Joseph, I’m posting my response again (what I can remember of it anyway) because your original comment (and my response) were accidentally deleted yesterday. Anyway, thank you again for your kind response, it was very much appreciated. So much so that I posted this line that you said on my Twitter account: “It’s weirdly liberating to realize there’s no shame in wanting your books to make money.”
If I can help you with anything let me know, but I want to make sure you know that I’m a former agent. Today I’m a coach and consultant helping authors get top agents, publishers, and book deals. To that end, I have several websites devoted to helping authors get a top literary agent, publisher, and book deal. You can see a complete list here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/websites/.
Plus…
Don’t miss out on my upcoming Q&A CALLL that I’ll be doing live with authors on Saturday, Nov. 21st. You can listen online and/or ask questions. See how you can participate here at http://thebestsellingauthor.com/radio-show/. Would love to see you there if you can make it.
Also…
If you haven’t already done so, click here now for access to all the valuable resources in my private, members-only area (no charge): http://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address, click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (and text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.
I’m also happy to answer any questions that you have online here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/. And, if you’re serious and believe we’re a good fit, you can register for an introductory coaching call with me here (there is a fee for that): http://thebestsellingauthor.com/coaching/intro-call/.
Either way, I’m looking forward to learning more about you and your work… and I’ll point you in the right direction.
Have a great weekend!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Mark, As you know from working with me for the past year writing a childrens chapter book was easy. Marketing is where the work really begins. Zig Ziglar made the statement “That if you help enough other people get what they want, then you will get what you want.” What is it that you really want? I write to tell young people that they can succeed. If I can help just a few see the light then everything else will fall into place. You can make money selling books or use them to make a fortune.
Hi Jim, I’m posting my response again (what I can remember of it anyway) because your original comment (and my response) were accidentally deleted yesterday. Anyway, my answer to that is yes… yes… and yes. I love what you’re doing. Thanks for taking a moment to say hello and share a little of your good mojo with me, and everyone else here reading.
Have a great weekend!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
WOW! what a great story, what a great article. We have to believe that all things are possible,if we believe they are possible.
Thank you Larry, it all starts with belief… doesn’t it? And ends with belief. 😉 Have a great holiday weekend. Mark
I’ve written 3 suspense thriller novles. I was told by a repuatble literary agency tthe 1st book was commercially viable, but the agency crumbled and I was left without an agent. Now I’m doing what is essential, spending 41% of my time writing and 59% being an entrepreneur for my product – 3 books and more in the pipeline – and getting professional help to get a new agent and make money from my hard work. You can’t pay your bills from writing unless you’re ready to be business minded about it.
Hi Paul, I love it… and I’m enjoying working with you. Oh, in all the excitement of our last call I believe that I forgot to tell you how to get testimonials from bestselling authors before we start pitching your work. Remind me next call. It’s one of the best parts of what I do. One of my clients emailed me last night from Australia. He just got the CEO of PepsiCo and Virgin Amercia (relevant to his book) on board. How great is that. With those kind of endorsers and/or promotional partners, it would be hard for agents to not at least take a peek at his project… don’t you think? Here’s to being creative AND making money. Talk soon and have a great weekend. Mark
Mark, my coaching experience with you is completely positive. As I am just sending out my first query letters I have yet to see the results. However I am confident that your query letter will attract the attention of agents, then it is up to my work to do the rest. Our discussions about the opening of the book I believe have made it much stronger and although it meant only some minor alterations, I probably would not have seen them without your help. You’re a great coach and fun to work with. E.
Hi Erik, it will come… not all my client get results in 5 minutes or less. Or even 5 days or weeks. But you’ve (we’ve) done everything possible now to give you the greatest advantage. So sleep good now, knowing that… and keep trusting yourself and the process. Looking forward to some good news soon. And thank you for always being so gracious and pleasant to work with. It means a lot. And it makes me want to do all I can to help you reach your goals. Talk soon. Mark
Great article Mark. As an actor and artist as well as a writer I have always endeavored to make my “Art” as good as it can be. But the job is only half done if I don’t share my work with as many people as possible, after all does a story really even exist if there is no one to listen to it? My “Art” is about communication and that takes at least two. If no-one wants to listen is the story worth telling? In today’s society money is the way we express appreciation, so why not make some? Erik
Thank you Erik, and amen. Glad to hear it. Spending hundreds or thousands of hours writing, in my view, without eventually finding a decent audience for that writing, is pathetic. And painful. We all know it, so we should use that feeling as fuel to figure out how to get our work out there… one way or another. Funny thing is that money tends to find us when we do that, too. Here’s to persevering. Mark