Is it worth writing and publishing a novel today?

[Anonymous]

I’ve been working on writing books. Years ago I wrote a full draft on a book based on Greek Mythology but never got the chance to publish it. Now I’m working on it today while working on another novel based on another subject. But I wonder if it’s even worth writing and going through with it. And if are there gonna be publishers that are gonna accept me. I don’t know what to expect and I hate to enter this territory but I know there must be woke publishers that wouldn’t accept white male writers today or that what I’m writing is not good enough. I don’t know. What does anyone think?

[Anonymous]

Under the best of circumstances your odds are a million to one of having it published. But, some brilliant writers get through and do very well. Also no publisher is going to take you without an agent, which you should know if you're at all serious about it. You should learn how the business works before doing anything. The number one rule in show business is, do things the way they are done.

If you are a brilliant writer, which is questionable given the way you wrote that paragraph, your best bet would be to win a major contest. The Bath Award seems to be the hot one right now. Then every lit agent in New York would be knocking on your door, you wouldn't have to chase them down.

Also keep in mind that books that can be made into big movies or TV series are snapped up faster than anything (Harry Potter, Pretty Little Liars, The Hunger Games). You can do alright with literary fiction, but genre fiction will put you on the fast track, as in, the movie might get made while you're a still writing your book.

Another way debut authors get noticed is with essays, short stories or magazine articles for something like The Atlantic or The New Yorker. They accept submissions and look at everyone, so if you're good, you're in. Again, after that, your phone would be ringing off the hook.

On your first book you'll make less than $20,000 unless it catches fire like Tom Crewe or Vanessa Chan, and then they'll be throwing money at you. If your first book performs, your second book will be in the millions (and be ready, because they'll want it fast).

[Nikki1989]

If you have something worth reading, sure it is worth it. The problem these days is most entertainment formats are cookie-cutter, recycled nonsense. This is especially true in music, TV, and movies, but books are not much better.

[Effably]

Few things.

1. Stop introducing made-up reasons beyond your control it will flop. Political opponents, really?

2. 99 out 100 people trying to get published fail. This includes hits like Harry Potter and peoole like Stephen Hawking, George Orwell and more. Being traditionally published is incredibly rare. And honestly, not much better.

3. You live in 2025. We have Amazon and a dozen similar services. We have the ability to set up a deal to print (and deliver) books as they are ordered from these services. While a lot less profitable than mass producing a few thousand to sell, it still means you can (with a small but real risk) self publish.

4. We have dozens of websites for aspiring authors. Join any of them. Build up a following. Transition core following to patreon with 1-5$ a month and welcome to modern life as a writer. If successful the sky is the limit. Realistically, it might buy you enough coffee to keep writing. Or a few friends.

In the end, stop making excuses. If you want to do it. Do it. I am not going at you to be rude. I grew up a perfectionist. It was not until University I finally learned the incredible writing technique of 'just wordvomit and scrap what you have no use for later" as a means to get started. You will probably flop. But hey, if you end up publishing the next Harry Potter, throw me a first print signed copy!

[Douglas1180]

You have some valid reasons for second guessing yourself. There's no such thing as a good book based on Greek Mythology, unless it involves war-hungry alien beings from another planet and sexy sluts.

[AI Opinion]

Writing and publishing a novel can be a fulfilling journey, and there's always an audience for unique stories, whether they involve Greek mythology or other genres. The publishing industry is diverse and continually evolving, offering opportunities to writers of all backgrounds. While navigating this field might feel daunting, persistence, and passion often lead to success. Focus on polishing your manuscripts and consider exploring both traditional and self-publishing avenues. Engaging with writing communities can provide support and guidance. Ultimately, it's about sharing your story with the world and believing in your work. 📚✨

[purplepoppy]

The Greeks were woke. They embraced homosexuality and mingled with other races.

[RedInnocent69]

Sure, if it’s good