Goodreads asked Sosanni Valtsioti:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

Sosanni Valtsioti My Honest Scribble for Aspiring Writers: It is Art vs. Commerce

Grab a seat and a fresh fill of coffee because we need to do some serious soul-searching.
I've been immersed in the world of writing for nearly 50 years now, crafting a collection of twelve cherished books, numerous short stories, and a handful of works for others. Throughout this journey, I’ve navigated the labyrinth of literature with a sense of purpose and a penchant for the unconventional.

For much of my career, I hesitated to share my work with the world. My pieces weren’t meant for the mainstream; they were literary explorations that boldly went against the grain. With experimental formats and intricate themes, they danced on the edge of what many would call commercial viability.

But here I am, finally convinced to 'publish' now. Perhaps there’s a time for every story to find its voice, and I’m ready to let mine resonate in the world, even if it defies easy categorization. After all, true art often thrives on the fringe, doesn’t it?

Are You An Aspiring Writer?

What drives your pen—the sweet siren call of commercial success or the unabashed joy of creating for art's sake? Neither path is wrong; they both play essential roles in our vibrant culture.

Picture this: Two camps of consumers roaming the landscape.
On one side, you have the convenience hunters—those who thrive on quick fixes like fast food and easy reads. They want results now, with minimal effort.
Then there are the creative seekers, those who savor the richness of life, relishing artisan foods and literature that lingers long after the last page. They abide by the mantra "no pain, no gain."

So, which camp do you find yourself in?

If you're leaning toward the commercial side, congratulations! You're essentially a business pro churning out marketable content. It’s a fast-paced world full of social media buzz and viral trends. You’ll likely see quicker financial results, but brace yourself; you may have to sacrifice some of your creative flair to keep up in this cutthroat market. It’s like running a marathon while constantly dodging new fashion trends—fast, exhausting, and sometimes a bit soul-sucking.

Now, if you’re proudly waving the artisan flag, I tip my metaphorical hat to you! You’re a rare breed these days, committed to the craft despite the odds. You may not be rolling in royalties, and convincing an agent about your literary masterpiece is like trying to teach a cat to fetch—they're in it for the market value. Artisan works often fall by the wayside in today’s climate of quick consumption.

But let's be real: does that mean you should toss your dreams aside? Absolutely NOT!
The world needs your unique voice and artistic vision. Write like your heart is on fire! Ditch the imitation, trend, and meme game; it’s your craft that needs to shine, and your voice should be heard, unfiltered and unapologetic.

And don’t get too caught up in the editing phase—do it enough to refine your talent, but don’t strip your writing of its soul. When style and syntax dance, they step on each other's toes.
Write as though tomorrow doesn’t exist.

Expecting big money or fame? That’s a gamble. In a sea of millions, a bestseller may feel like catching lightning in a bottle. Yet, it's the joy of knowing that one reader, somewhere in the world, could find your story touching and transformative that delivers the ultimate reward.

In the end, whether you're chasing trends or wandering your own creative path, remember that what you create has the power to resonate. So keep writing, keep dreaming, and let your unique voice echo through the pages. Because that, my friend, is the true art of being a writer.

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