Writer? Get a real job!
Last night I had the pleasure of hearing an author, the excellent Archie Fusillo, speak. Afterwards while chatting, someone was discussing the dominance of women in the writing and publishing industry. The question was asked why?
I suggested because “Writer is not a real job.”
Men still are focussed on being the main provider. Whether instinctively, out of habit or simply sexism, it is still the case. Making a career in writing - or any of the arts - is pushing the proverbial uphill. It’s much easier and more profitable to go become a doctor, lawyer, engineer, electrician, mechanic, businessman etc.
Writer is a real job of course, but it is a long, long road for most to the point where you can do it exclusively. Until that time, you or your partner will need a “real job”.
But if you’re a guy - or a girl - and you want to be a writer, don’t give up on it just because it can’t yet meet your financial responsibilities. It can take years. Stephen King and JK Rowling were not overnight successes. There were many years of writing behind their first success.
And by the way, blogging is writing. It can take a while to become profitable too.
Recommended reading for aspiring writers:
I love it when people look down on writers. umm..without us there would be no news, no newspapers, no magazine subscriptions, no internet, no tv, etc….