It's complicated

A facebook relationship status that also applies to most writing careers

If I had to sum up publishing in two words, I might choose “it’s complicated.” Or perhaps “it’s luck” or “stay persistent” or “be patient.”

But the complicated bit sums up everything.

It’s a complicated industry for many reasons—the luck, the timing, the grit you need to survive, the patience you need to practice with yourself (and others.) It’s also complicated because almost nothing happens as you might expect or hope.

A long time ago, when I was a bright-eyed and eager aspiring author, I thought getting that first book deal would be the hardest step. Once I had it, I’d be in! I didn’t think things would be easy after that point, but I was fairly certain that the hardest work would be behind me.

Turns out staying published is the truly hard part. (Nearly anyone who’s been doing this for a decent amount of time will tell you the same.)

Asid…