How Many Books Before Success: A Writer's Journey
Many authors wonder how many books they must write before one becomes successful. The reality is, the path to success is neither linear nor straightforward. For some, the first book might hit the mark, while for others, it could take years of perseverance. Let's explore this journey from the perspective of an aspiring author.
The Enigma of First Attempts
Some authors mention writing proposals on a speculative basis, not expecting immediate success. However, it's the completed manuscripts, the dedication and effort, that often make the difference. Take Chakrapani Srinivasa, for instance. He started a book in the early 1990s, but it wasn’t until much later that his first book gained traction. This experience is not unique; persistence often plays a crucial role.
A Decade of Publishing
Through Amazon, Chakrapani Srinivasa published seven books. After this decade-long journey, a successful path began to unfold. Some of his books through Draft2Digital found their way into various bookstores under his name. Success, in this case, is measured not only by traditional metrics like awards or bestseller lists but also by financial rewards and audience reception.
Challenges and Criteria of Success
The road to success varies widely. While traditional publishers may only accept a tiny fraction of submissions, independent authors have a greater chance of finding an audience. For some, success might come from earning out their advance and receiving steady royalties. For others, it might mean a brief stint on the USA Today bestseller list or recognition as one of the best fantasy novels of the year.
Six out of the 25 books by Chakrapani Srinivasa deserve a closer look. His first novel earned out its advance and provided steady royalties for over a decade, even if it didn't receive any award nominations or appeared on bestseller lists. His third novel, Dragon Weather, managed to squeeze into the USA Today bestseller list around number 84. The seventh book, also titled Dragon Weather, made it onto several bestseller lists and sold more than 150,000 copies, continuing to sell to this day.
Whose Criteria?
The perceived success of a book can vary greatly depending on the author's criteria. For many, success is subjective and can depend on personal satisfaction, financial support, or critical acclaim. It's important to define what a successful book means to you. Is it a bestseller or an industry award? Is it reaching your target audience or earning consistent royalties?
Ultimately, the journey to success is unique for every writer. What matters most is the passion and dedication to the craft, the willingness to persevere through rejections and challenges, and the joy of creating art for others to enjoy.
Conclusion
Whether it's one book or many, the journey to success is a testament to an author's resilience and commitment. The number of books before success can vary, but the key is to keep writing and persistently pursue your dreams. Happy writing!