The Writing and Publishing Process: A Reality Check
We’ve all heard the saying that “there’s a novel in everyone.” And yes, every life has more than enough stories to fill a book. But here’s the truth: not everyone can actually write one.
Writing is hard. It takes skill, focus, dedication, and sheer determination. It also takes something most of us struggle to find — time. Time away from work, family, and leisure. And, let’s not forget, the financial breathing space to make that time possible, whether it be physically or mentally. As Virginia Woolf put it, to write, one needs money and a room of one’s own.
But finishing the book is only half the story.
Traditionally, getting published meant running a gruelling gauntlet: first, secure an agent, then hope they can find you a publisher. The gates were closely guarded, and for the lucky few who made it through, being published felt like such an enormous privilege that few dared to question whether it was truly worth the cost.
For everyone else, there used to be only one other route; so-called “vanity publishing,” which came with stigma, high costs, and little respect.
What Publishers Want (and Don’t Want)
These days, things look a little different, but not necessarily easier. Many publishers are risk-averse, chasing “the next big thing,” which usually looks a lot like the last big thing. That means originality isn’t always an advantage, and quality alone won’t guarantee success. If your work happens to align with a trend, you’re in luck. If not, it can be an uphill battle.
This is where writers face a tough choice: do you chase trends to improve your chances of a deal, or do you write the book you really want to write? I know people who compromise their art to fit the market, and while I understand why, it still makes me sad. The creative inspiration, intention, and story should lead, not follow.
Even if you do land that elusive publishing deal, don’t imagine you’re done. The reality? Despite many publishers offering a ‘marketing package’, much of the leg work remains with the author.
You’ll need to build your brand, profile, find your audience (aka ‘tiny tribe’), and shout about your book, inspiration, process and ‘wins’ from the rooftops. Publishers might give you a little support, but gone are the days of generous publicity tours and big marketing budgets for every author.
It’s like finishing a marathon, only to be told you need to run another one straight away.
Thankfully, self-publishing has shed much of its old stigma. With independent publishing houses appearing, digital platforms and print-on-demand opportunities, it’s easier than ever to get your work ‘out there’.
But “easier” doesn’t mean “easy.”
Self-publishing authors still have to wear every hat, albeit editor, designer, marketer, and distributor, or pay to outsource those roles. It’s empowering, yes, but it can also be exhausting and expensive.
So, Where Does That Leave Writers?
Aspiring writers in the UK today are caught between creativity and commerce. Traditional publishing is still the dream for many, but it often depends on timing, luck, and whether your book happens to fit the latest trend. For others, indie presses, hybrid publishing, or self-publishing might be more realistic paths. Each option comes with its compromises, but also its freedoms.
When all is said and done, the best advice is to write because you love it. If you have a burning story to tell, tell that story. Write because you have a burning need to do so, not because you want to be rich or famous. You will never do anything good without passion. The publishing world is fickle, but the act of writing itself, shaping words into something meaningful, is still one of the most rewarding things you can do.