Why Do Authors Blog?

Really, I've got so many other things to do right now. I'm working on revisions for the content edit on four Eusta Diddoo – Runaway Pony episodes. I'm constantly back and forth with the cover designer to change the appearance of this pony on concept sketches. (He's got to look right.) I'm trying to trim the dialog in a sci-fi novel that's heavy on scenes. Apparently I write like someone creating a screenplay. Readers need a break with narrative that isn't paced as intensely. Meanwhile my third laundry load is piled on the floor, I've got to hit the health food store and make dinner so my wife and I can get to the gym later. Then why am I spending time on this post?

I started this to establish an online presence. My acting publicist sat down at a computer with me and put up this blogger site. It's what authors are told to do by many experts in the field. Although there are some who feel differently. In fact there's a lively debate on the subject that's been running for a long time.

Ann R. Allen gives 10 reasons for authors to blog. She does an excellent job of covering the pro-blogging side mentioning online presence, reader and advocate connecting among other positive arguments. She also links to the opposing side written by L.L. Barkat who says authors should stop blogging in a guest post on Jane Friedman's blog. Barkat points to the saturation of bloggers competing for an audience on the web, saying those who got in at the beginning had a much easier time than anyone getting started now. Jane Friedman herself recommends blogging and offers authors some advice on getting started in this post. Rachelle Gardner takes a look at both sides. She outlines her reasons for or against depending on what kind of author you are and how you feel about the commitment to creating regular posts. Carol Wyer addresses the idea of whether it's right for you or not in a post on Indies Unlimited. Wyer discusses the time involved and the way it gradually builds relationships. Gardner and Wyer along with Barkat suggest other online venues for promoting yourself and your books.

Most who comment on the subject realistically point out that blog readers are not necessarily the audience interested in buying your books. By no means should you equate readership to book sales. Certainly many non-fiction authors are able to reach their audience with threads on their subject matter. Fiction fans, however, don't usually visit an author's blog until they've read and enjoyed one of his books.

I consider that many of my visitors are fellow authors. People who are going through the same challenges I face. That's who I believe this thread will speak to, not middle grade readers or sci-fi fans. I for one intend to continue these weekly posts. They may change to be more fan friendly once the first book is out, but I'll always discuss the work of creating, publishing and promoting books. After all I am an author. It's what we do.

Thanks for stopping by.
- Jonra Springs