Don't give up the day job ...

... unless you are NYT bestselling author John Gilstrap:

http://www.johngilstrap.com/aboutjohn.html

So, for some authors, there is more to life than just writing!

I like the part about how people look at you funny when you try to share your artistic dreams.

Ann

Author Glen Cook wrote three novels a year while working full time for GM. After he retired, his writing output dropped way off. Funny how that works, sometimes.

Thanks for a realistic look at writing as a career and a passion. I think it was just the inspiration and dose of reality to put the career in perspective.

I did find when I was off work a few weeks that I had more time for planning promotion and technical web site and blog work; however, I was not a more prolific writer. I also was more reclusive than I am already.

Good article.

I like also that he invited others to email him.

Nice man.

Carol

John is an awesome person! We spent many an hour talking after hours during Thrillerfest this past July. I look forward to more conversation in October during Bouchercon.

He is funny, charming, and an all around good soul.

Oh, and a terrific writer too.

I have no doubt he will personally respond to anyone who emails him, he is that nice! I highly recommend his essays on writing.

Thanks for posting the link Shelagh!

dkchristi wrote:

I also was more reclusive than I am already.

This is the reason full-time writing would be a poor choice for me. I don't get out much as is; my job is the main thing that gets me out of the house. My social life is non-existant -totally my own fault, since I have not made the effort to maintain friendships. When I do get out, it's largely due to my kids' activities or their desire to attend something. I've idly wondered where that will leave me when they're both grown and gone.

When writing a book, I also become very self-absorbed about it, as it takes up most of my time and thought. I recognize this isn't good and that I need to find balance. But it hasn't happened yet.

Great link, Shelagh. The man has an interesting viewpoint and perspective.

Malcolm

LC, I look around at what few friends I've still managed to hang with; and their other social life is created through contacts about their kids. It really takes effort to step out without something pulling if you're not the gregarious type.

Book signings force me into the public, but that's acting.