Every writer dreams of trending on the Times Best Sellers. It is, after all, the pinnacle of author success. Like the NBA, millions are after it but only 0.01 percent make it. For the rest, suiting up or charting remains a pipe dream.
Inclusive
Recently, I thought about my readership. Wouldn’t it be nice if my books sold in bricks and mortar stores? Or end up in the top ten of any list. How would it feel if I’m on the bus and some other passenger was engrossed in my book?
My reach need not be that wide. Instead, how about in the hands of all the people I know in Sydney. That’s nice haha. I can already imagine this guy crying croc tears as he struggles with tough words. He keeps checking his mobile for definitions.
Coelho
Let’s be pragmatic. A few weeks ago, I reviewed The Alchemist. Initially, the book was ignored. This went on for a while. The author, Paulo Coelho, seemed resigned that success would never materialise. Until, one day, an American suit discovered his novel. The rest is history.
Of course your work doesn’t have to cause ripples across oceans. Commercial and critical success are nice, but neither is a catch-all measure of your worth as a writer. You don’t need rave reviews or millions to validate your place. The journey and effort are just as rewarding.
Duds
When I was studying, I mentioned that I got 8.5 in the IELTS. We were discussing the English proficiency Test. The second guy wasn’t even there with us. They didn’t believe me. Thought I was bragging and exaggerating. They maligned me to other club members. The tandem was very rude. I’d ask them questions and they’d ignore me. They are *model* Catholics.
As a mixed race kid once said, ‘You might think we’re the same. You’re wrong.’
See also: my 300 page memoir. If the pair could grasp the hard copy, they probably wouldn’t believe their eyes. What is this chicanery, they’d ask. Oh, what I’d give to see the look on their smug faces.
Before, I had wished that all those uni club mates would see my work. Very recently, I’ve changed my outlook. Why is it important for these doubters to read my memoir? Why do I have to prove them wrong? They already know that I completed an Honours degree. Exit, stage left.
Shocker
I’ve seen how people have reacted upon beholding a copy. The guy at the printing press was impressed. My bookworm chiro, entrepreneurs, even family friends. They were lost for words. Some acquaintances were shocked that I had it in me. Yes, they may be physicians and accountants but that doesn’t mean that they could top my effort. I personally know two PhDs who would struggle to write such a work. Whether here or overseas, it’s easy to preen and brag but difficult to walk the talk.
Tip-in
I’m glad that my copies have made their way to people that matter. My parents. My eldest sibling, who resides overseas. Family friends in Sydney. The former chiropractor. My acupuncturist. Other professionals. My GP. Friends. My godmother. The aforementioned store owner. A civil servant. A former classmate. These are the readers that matter. Others are just a bonus.
Please note:
My nonfiction ebook, Topher Wins, is available for purchase. The price has been reduced from 12.99 USD to $7:
