If you're a regular reader of this blog you'll know that I harp on quite a bit about writing being a solitary endeavour. Sometimes it can be a little isolating and I guess that's where blogging comes in to alleviate some of that loneliness. Having said that, I've recently come to realise that part (if not a lot) of the reason I love writing is because it allows me to be a complete and utter loner.
You see, outside of the blogging world, I am a bit of a wallflower. It's not that I'm super shy so much as I can't be bothered with small talk. Also, I think reading and watching TV has imprinted in me a need for life changing conversation or no conversation at all. I've come to expect the kind of dialogue thrown around by Elizabeth and Mr Darcy and when all I hear is get to know you chit-chat, I tend to shrug and decide it's more fun to be at home with my own characters than to risk being disappointed by real people.
This doesn't really help me much as a writer and especially as an aspiring indie writer since I'm going to have to do all of my own marketing and publicity. I suppose I could promote the book on my blog but there's only some much self promotion you can do on your blog before people start tuning out. Besides, I'm great in writing. Just like I'm great on paper. But if you walked up to me on the street the last thing I'd be able to talk about is my novel. Or my writing.
So I just wanted to throw it out there and see how those of you who have published books/plan to publish books have gotten over the wallflower syndrome. Does it get easier to promote your work without feeling like you're being an imposition? What do you do when a book blogger declines your review request? Am I the only one whose freaking out about marketing my own book? Would love to hear your thoughts!
