Many of us who are writing have probably dreamed about suddenly being catapulted to fame – the sort of fame now enjoyed (endured?) by Joanne Rowling.
But would such a thing be a triumph, or a terror?
For me, I would hate the idea; love the income, fear the price that comes with it.
As an introvert, I would far rather hide in the background and pay an accomplished actor to be ‘me,’ to press the flesh and face the flashes as a blizzard of questions are launched.
I’m happy to think, imagine, dream and type out my thoughts on my current keyboard, from wherever I happen to be in the world.
I have been to exactly two book signings in my life. One was for my fellow writer and Darlington-dweller, Jenna Burtenshaw, the other was for Robin Hobb, one of my favourite fantasy authors.
Although the attendance at Jenna’s signing was a little smaller than Robin’s, I still wondered what it would feel like to be on the opposite side of the table. It didn’t appeal. Although it would have been nice (I imagined) to speak to people who’d enjoyed my work, the idea of being placed in front of the public sent a cold shiver down my back. I would much rather communicate with an audience on-line than in real life.
Am I alone in this?
Do other writers fear the repercussions of their work achieving a measure of fame?
It’s a question raised by Ben Myers in The Guardian. In the twenty-first century, do writers now have a duty to the public?
If you ask me, I’d rather simply…
Aug 28, 2014 @ 18:52:57
I would dislike the public appearances that fame and publishers seem to demand. But as an indie writer, maybe there’s a choice. I don’t know.
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Aug 28, 2014 @ 18:54:08
There would certainly be fewer demands from Agents and publishing houses to appear. Only our own incentive to sell would drive us after that…
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Aug 13, 2014 @ 15:24:40
I understand what you mean; I have no interest in fame as well, and all I care is writing and giving to readers. It is interesting to see how many people claim to be introverts when they do seem to do well with crowds and big events, fame … I don’t know if it is because the concept is evolving, but I also don’t like it to be down played, as for many people the thought of “fame” might seem unbearable. I guess every introvert must decide when or if crossing over is worth it.
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Aug 20, 2014 @ 13:58:30
Yes, it seems to be a ‘betrayal’ of the real introverts when a writer or actor steps before the cameras and demonstrates comfort.
Painfully shy actors (Christopher Lloyd, Rowan Atkinson, to name just two) cope by becoming geniuses and clowns before the camera, but I wonder what mental torture they endure in order to step up there…
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Aug 13, 2014 @ 15:17:26
When I had an agent who briefly loved my book, I told my husband I was going to put his name down as author because no way could I stand the limelight.
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Aug 13, 2014 @ 13:28:48
I’d love it, to be honest. Not sure it’ll ever be a problem that I have to face though.
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Aug 13, 2014 @ 13:16:37
I reckon I’ll cross that bridge when I get there. First I have to actually finish a novel 😉
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Aug 13, 2014 @ 09:39:44
I don’t know how I would handle it. I am shy but am doing better as I grow older. Interesting question you pose here. I want to touch others with my writing…that’s all I know.
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Aug 20, 2014 @ 13:53:31
The interaction I have with fellow writers and interested readers IS helping me to emerge from my shell to some extent, but I’m always happy to retreat back into the shell when the conversation’s over.
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