Category: Marketing

An Experiment in Writing – Part 6: Authenticity

I’m going on to a side topic in this one.

Okay, a hidden mainstream topic in this one. Because it’s really about marketing although most people might not think so.

Today’s topic is based on some conferences I attended over the past month and some classes I’ve taken during that same time period.

Yeah, busy me, I know.

Summing up (because this experiment’s a long one):

  1. Write from the self so your writing is true
  2. Trust your audience/reader to get your message (if your work has one, of course)
  3. Be true with them so #2 works with them

 
Think I’m onto something? Take a class with me or schedule a critique of your work.
Think I’m an idiot? Let me know in a comment.
Either way, we’ll both learn something.

Go get my books!

RoundTable 360° September 2024 “Artistic Intent” – Is it more important audiences get our meaning or we pay our bills?”

The August 2024 RoundTable 360° discussed Artistic Intent and focused on the challenge of getting your message across – assuming your work has a message – in a market-driven economy.

I took a class with Isaac Bashevis Singer long ago. A student approached him during a break and asked if his goal was to entertain or educate his audience.

“To entertain. I can’t educate them if I don’t entertain them first.”

 
His response has stayed with me ever since. “To entertain. I can’t educate them if I don’t entertain them first.

This has special meaning to me as my work always carries some kind of message, even if it’s “Be sure to turn the lights off when you leave.”

Budda-boom.

Watch and enjoy.

Writing Mentoring

You are a fabulous teacher. – Parsippany, NJ

 
Let me save you some time before reading this post by starting out as I did with Critiques: Online or via Email; Do you want to improve your writing? Are you willing to pay to improve?

If the answer to either of those is No then read no further, this post isn’t for you.

Answered Yes to both? Read on.

The Joseph I know is a gifted author, supportive human, and thoughtful mentor. His thoughtful insights on a myriad of subjects allows for lively discussions and good insights. … The operative word is constructive. Suggestions by Joseph are very specific which helps the entire learning process. Note, this is different than simply working with an editor, or English teacher, or even beta readers, because the feedback is actionable. It is an honor to rank Joseph as a mentor. – Houston, TX

 
Continue reading “Writing Mentoring”

Critiques: Online or via Email

As a writer, Joseph helped me to unlock my potential, opening up parts of my stories’ universes I couldn’t see. – Beaumont, TX

 
Let me save you some time before reading this post; Do you want to improve your writing? Are you willing to pay to improve?

If the answer to either of those is No then read no further, this post isn’t for you.

Your critique of my novel was priceless. – Hudson, NH

 
Answered Yes to both? Read on.
Continue reading “Critiques: Online or via Email”

RoundTable 360° August2024 “Yeah, But You’re An Idiot” – Authenticity and Legitimacy in Rejections

The August 2024 RoundTable 360° discussed whether or not having your work rejected really means anything, and the counter to that, what does it mean if your work is accepted (aside from getting that warm, gushy feeling inside)?

Watch and enjoy.