I say: “I’m a self-published author.” “I write chick lit or you know, women’s fiction, or whatever.” “My novel is more commercial than literary.”
Which sounds a lot like: “I’m not ready.” “I don’t believe in my story.” “My book isn’t worthy.”
Outside the writing/publishing industry issues about traditional publishing, self publishing, chick lit, women’s fiction and the never-ending battle between commercial fiction and literary fiction aren’t particularly hot topics. I’ve never understood their divisiveness and command of debate within the industry. I still don’t.
What I have come to understand is my role in perpetuating the power of these labels. Every time I qualify something I write in one of these ways it sounds like I am making an apology. Which I most certainly am not.
So instead, I will say: “I am an author.” “I write.” “My novel is awesome.”
I encourage you to do the same.
