If you haven’t given any thought to this question, it’s time.

Because it matters.

Writing for a Publisher

If you’re writing for a specific publisher or a contract with a publisher, or for a particular publication, you’ve got a box that your work has to fit perfectly within. You’re limited to a word count, genre. Maybe an ending. Maybe language/sex/violence parameters.

Or maybe you’ve got a plot outline that will dictate exactly where your story goes and how it gets there.

When you’re writing for a publisher, you’re essentially an employee. They tell you what they want, and you write it.

This is the goal of most writers.

Because hey, we gotta eat!

So if income is a primary goal, be prepared to do what you’re told.

Writing for Readers

This is a very different expectation.

The first thing you must decide is which readers.

There is no one-size-fits-all in literature.

You cannot possibly not offend anyone.

You will bore some, captivate others.

You will likely cross many lines for some, and find yourself with some nasty comments, reviews, and 1-star ratings.

Unless you’re very clear on your who.

Scare off the readers who won’t appreciate your style. Do your level best to attract people who will enjoy what you have to say and how you say it.

But rest assured that your audience is as unique as you are. You can write for them, as long as you know who they are and what they want.

Writing for You

This is every writer’s dream.

To simply write what you want with no concern for others, money, or outcome.

Very few have the chance to do this.

Though I would argue that everyone has the chance to do this.

But we get so bogged down with life and commitments and expectations and needs that we throw away the very opportunity we crave to be creative.

Whatever you write, for whomever, make time to simply create. To write for you. For your soul.

Creativity breeds creativity. The more we write, the more we can write.

Don’t deny yourself.

Yes we need to put a roof over our heads. And yes, what’s the point if no one reads our stuff. But also yes, you need to write for you.

You may even find others who prefer your genuine self.

It doesn’t have to be so hard.

Alex.