Monday, December 13, 2010

I'll Split The Proceeds 50-50...

If you haven't seen this video yet, watch, then read my comments on the subject below.



For all of you writers reading this post, please tell me how many times someone has told you they have a great idea for a book and if you write the book, they'll split the proceeds 50-50?

I wish I could say no one has ever said that to me. Unfortunately, at least three people have told me that. A variation are the people who asked me to write their biography and promised to split the royalties.

In the course of my day job, I've received several letters from donors who promise to make large donations once their first book sells. What literally scares me is when they talk about quitting their day job so they can write their bestseller and earn a million within the next year.

Honestly, it hardly ever works that way. Maybe never. I wouldn't count on that and would never bank on it unless I had enough money in the bank to cover all my bills for a very long time.

Honestly, I have more ideas for books than I have time to write. And honestly, it takes a lot of knowledge, talent, and very hard work to write a book. No one in their right mind would split royalties with someone in exchange for an idea and no other input.

Unfortunately, I've run into the would-be writer's arrogance, too. If the wanna be writer tells an agent, editor, publisher, or reader his poor oppinions about reading and other books, no one will want to work with him.

Even though this was annoying because I've met people who act so similarly, it was also hilarious. Enjoy!

Ashley

28 comments:

Unknown said...

Ya can't help but laugh at the video. It's such a true account of what "non" writers believe. If I can't survive on my royalties without a day job, I'm certainly not going to split them 50/50 with anyone! :o)

Unknown said...

PS...I've been freelancing in fiction and non fiction for almost 20 years. I can't quit my day job.

Molly Daniels said...

MY fave is when people assume I've got a maid, private jet, and am raking in the dough:) Or ask 'How much was your advance?'

Unknown said...

I've yet to earn an advance and IMve had more than 50 books published. Not one month have I earned more in royalties than I earned from my day job. Only one month came close and that was about 3 years ago.

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