The Continuing Relevance of Authors

Anyone with an outfacing profile or business will undoubtedly encounter occasions when they question their relevance. Relevance with regard to the market they work within, the target audience, or to society in general. 

Before continuing it may help to consider what it means to be relevant.

‘Something that is relevant to a situation or person is important or significant in that situation or to that person.’ (Collins Dictionary)

‘having significant and demonstrable bearing on the matter at hand’ (Merriam-Webster)

‘related to the matter in hand.’ (‘applicable, pertinent, germane.’) (Oxford English Dictionary)

The Collins definition is the most helpful in the context of this discussion. However, the other definitions assist if the reader comprehends what is meant by ‘the matter in hand’. For an author the matter in hand is more likely the readership they hope to attract.

It is inevitable anyone serious about their business will question their relevance regularly. The frequency will vary between individuals but is likely to increase with passing years. Society, trends, and habits change with each generation. The creator of a product (book) will wish to ensure anything new meets audience expectations. Fine when the producer (author) aims to attract a new market. However, how does the concept stand with respect to already existing products and the future? Do books become irrelevant with time? Most authors will appreciate a definitive NO is the answer. Why?

Irrespective of time all books hold their own in one form or other. This applies to both fiction and non-fiction.

Fiction

Though most fiction is written to entertain there are many examples of it also being used to highlight social, political and other issues. Charles Dickens made a point of this. Jane Austen, who had a great sense of humour, depicts some of the ridiculous aspects prevalent to the high society of her time. Though the more subtle points in their books may be missed by some readers no one can deny they are entertaining. There would not be so many adaptations if they were not. Classic author books have certainly withstood the test of time. So have some written by more modern authors: Agatha Christie, Sir Author Conan Doyle, P. D. James, Colin Dexter for example. Twentieth Century authors have also used their books to address religious and social incongruity. Whether intended or not authors rarely avoid portraying something of themselves in their books. In one form or other their beliefs, opinions, outlook, etc., find expression.

Authors, especially independent (indie) ones often fear their books will cease to be of popular interest over time. It cannot be denied this is sometimes the case however, there are examples of books finding new popularity long after the author’s departure. A couple of examples:

The Phantom of the Opera short story was first published in 1909 with mixed reception. Andrew Lloyd Webber came across it while on holiday and in 1986 produced the highly popular theatre show. It was so popular a further adaption into film came out in 2004.

A woman (name not recalled) published a memoir (year unknown) that failed to find an audience. The book languished for years. Then for no apparent reason (there had been no publicity or marketing) the book became popular during her grandson’s fortieth decade.

Authors should bear in mind, even if a book is withdrawn from retail book shelves (bricks and mortar and online), it never ceases to exist. It may always be discovered by readers. Neither should they forget the existence of libraries, secondhand book retailers, and charity shops.

In the midst of life, some of which can be stressful, people often look for ways to relax and temporarily escape. Books are one way to achieve this. During the Covid-19 lockdown reliable statistics evidence a marked increase in reading.

Non-Fiction

The non-fiction category is widespread. Besides the obvious, such as text books, specific guides, scientific investigation, historical accounts, self-help and so on, the category also incorporates memoir, biography, essays, poetry, art, photography, and more.

Books are never out of date or irrelevant. Even books that deal with past technologies have a place on bookshelves. In all there are various elements of interest.

The human mind is predominately an inquiring one. There is the general pleasure enjoyed by many of simply knowing and storing facts. Perhaps more importantly is that the understanding and comprehending of events and experiences helps put current life into perspective. Studying the past often helps make sense of the present. It can be revealing and assist people to realise they are not alone in their experiences. There is also an element of learning.

Developing new products and technologies relies upon an understanding of what came before. Frequently the new is the result of brick building i.e. without each previous development the new could not exist.

Readers may find resolutions to their life challenges in how other people have dealt with their own issues. Sadly, many have to struggle with difficult lives. They often feel they are on their own without a viewable solution. Accounts of similar experiences give them succour and hope.  

Books also provide a trove of information for researchers.

Roundup

Books never lose relevance. In many, fiction and non-fiction, readers may learn, discover, find hope, be inspired. Books can provide relaxation, insight, and answers to some life questions and challenges.

Authors need to remember, irrespective of genre and subject, they are providing a service and a contribution to posterity’s library. Their books also form part of their ongoing legacy. Even years after publication their books may be discovered, become popular, and provide help to readers. In addition, even though they may not have benefited themselves at the time of publication, their books may furnish an income for their decedents.

Irrespective of whether they write fiction or non-fiction authors are always, in one form or other, relevant.

Related Article: The Ageing Author