As writers we constantly make decisions - what to write about, characters' names, plot lines, publishing decisions, etc. The list goes on and on.
We also have to think about our brand and who our readers are. Our readers want to know more about us; they want a small glimpse into our lives. They may even consider us a friend. As such, need to make ourselves real to them and let them into our worlds a bit.
However, there's a fine line you have to navigate.
We need to be careful that we don't disillusion our readers. I mention this because I've come to a sad realization. I no longer have a favorite author. I love her talent, her creativity, her storylines. However, I hate her politics, and I've gotten tired of hearing about them. In the past, I'd buy one of her books without even reading the back cover because I knew I'd love it. After reading another one of her aggravating posts on Facebook, I thought about the last time I bought one of her books, and I can't remember how long ago it was! I've probably missed six of her latest titles, and I no longer have a desire to read her work.
It's sad but true.
So, my advice to you, as a writer, keep in mind what your audience wants from you and protect that relationship. My J. Leigh James readers don't come to me for my opinion on current events, and I will never ask them to. If I want to share my viewpoints, I'll either do it from my personal page or I'll create another brand that people will expect those type of messages from. I recommend you do the same.
Now, please excuse me while I unfollow a former, favorite writer.
We also have to think about our brand and who our readers are. Our readers want to know more about us; they want a small glimpse into our lives. They may even consider us a friend. As such, need to make ourselves real to them and let them into our worlds a bit.
However, there's a fine line you have to navigate.
We need to be careful that we don't disillusion our readers. I mention this because I've come to a sad realization. I no longer have a favorite author. I love her talent, her creativity, her storylines. However, I hate her politics, and I've gotten tired of hearing about them. In the past, I'd buy one of her books without even reading the back cover because I knew I'd love it. After reading another one of her aggravating posts on Facebook, I thought about the last time I bought one of her books, and I can't remember how long ago it was! I've probably missed six of her latest titles, and I no longer have a desire to read her work.
It's sad but true.
So, my advice to you, as a writer, keep in mind what your audience wants from you and protect that relationship. My J. Leigh James readers don't come to me for my opinion on current events, and I will never ask them to. If I want to share my viewpoints, I'll either do it from my personal page or I'll create another brand that people will expect those type of messages from. I recommend you do the same.
Now, please excuse me while I unfollow a former, favorite writer.
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