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#3
I have been trying so hard to complete my outline for Project #3. Well....as hard as I can given the fact that I work (damn near) full-time and am trying to create a "tour" for the summer. I'm not quite overwhelmed -- I'm working at my own pace -- but I definitely haven't been in the writing mindset like I'd prefer to be.
By now most of you all know that the sequel to Lazarus is called Covenant, and my goal is to have it available in 2006. My third project would likely debut in 2007. That's IF the money is right, ya know.
In self-publishing, I can't just "decide" to publish a book. A lot has to be in order, primarily finances. It took a lot of resources that I didn't have to produce Lazarus -- I'm happy with the final product though, even though I can't cut all the same corners a second time around.
After I'm confident the finances are together (for the second book, that is), then I get a marketing plan together (another one, in addition to the Lazarus plan). For 2006, the marketing plan will include lots of travel, a "tour" if you will. There are LOTS of events in even numbered years that I could potentially sell books or make appearances at. The four largest black sororities are having conventions, as will the Alphas. Not to mention alllll the gay black pride festivals and different literary festivals. Also in 2006 will be my class reunion and an APO convention.
I am excited. What I am not excited about is how to finance the whole thing.
Things would be different if I actually had a career in addition to publishing. That's not to say that writers with real jobs have it easier -- they are probably way more stressed than I am. But it would be nice to have a little more disposable income.
I'm not complaining though! Please believe I am happy -- for real!
But back to my outline. I am taking a different approach to #3 and it's a challenge. I need all the spare time I can get this summer to work on it. I once thought I'd actually be able to finish the whole thing this summer, but that's a rather lofty goal.
Not to mention I have some editing to do on #2.
I sure could use a laser printer right about now.
I could use a lot of things right now.
How about Amazon.com sucks? Okay, so it doesn't COMPLETELY suck. For some reason people equate being on Amazon with success. All it really means is that I joined a program in which I pay Amazon a (small) annual fee and they purchase books from me at a crazy discounted price. They then sell my books through their website and cut me a check once a month.
Basically, it's consignment. It's not a bad thing, but all in all, I'd rather people purchase the books directly to me because that means I can invest more of that money back into Old Gold Soul.
That means I get to pay for more travel to the different Prides Atlanta is going to damn near break me, and I have no idea how I'm going to afford to go to Fire & Ink. Charlotte Pride is become an impossibility for now. (The upshot is that I may be able to recruit an Old Gold Soul field representative to man a table in Charlotte for me.) But I GOTTA go to New York this summer. Pride is irrelevant, I just have folks I need to see in NY.
Things will be looking up in the coming month though. (Not that things are down at all, I am just venting about things.) After I wrap up subbing (God bless DC schools being in session until JUNE 21) I will have some down time to just get things together and move forward.
One of these days, I am going to post the folks who I envision to be in Lazarus: The Movie some day. That should be fun. Maybe I'll do that tonight.
Posted by Rashid on June 6, 2005 7:26 PM
Comments
Hey Rashid,
All I can say man is hold on. Pray about it and believe. I am a witness. It looks to be alot sometimes but things can and will get sweet.
I believe in you. And although it may seem as though I am bothering you, I really want to be of any assistance. You are an artist, I am an artist and artists band together to support one another.
If there is anything that a brother can do, shout out.
I mean that with a sincere heart.
As always in Parting,
I came in Peace and in Peace I leave.
Commented by Kenneth on June 6, 2005 8:14 PM
Rashid,
First, ditto on the comments by the other Kenneth. You are on your way and the rewards are big at the end of the struggle. Keep your faith. Be smart about your tours, literary festivals, etc. Use connections for lodging, meals, etc. Black folks used to have to stay with a network of friends when traveling in the South before we could get rooms in hotels. Get some references and hookups for the cities you plan to visit.
Now a word to the rest of your readers - we have to support this brother. Buy more than one book, dammit and order directly from Old Gold Soul. Give the second copy as a gift to someone you care about (I did). Give his a place to stay if he needs it and arrange some book readings/signing/meet-the-author parties for him.
And finally to our frats, step up to the plate. MANLY DEEDS!
'06
Commented by Ken W. on June 7, 2005 9:27 AM