Getting Personal

Lately, I've been noticing a lot of authors speaking out about personal issues. In the February issue of Essence magazine Omar Tyree discusses his struggle with monogamy and Zane talks about her recent divorce. Nick Chiles recently wrote a scathing editorial for the New York Times about his disgust with the current crop of ghetto and erotic literature and his frustration with trying to compete with such titles. In a recent blog entry, Nichelle Tramble discusses the heartbreak of finding out, after she'd become published, that a friend of hers wasn't the friend she thought he was and the weird things people say to authors.

I've never been married, let alone divorced. I don't have to worry about being monogamous, since I'm not in a relationship. And I'm not particularly bothered by the proliferation of ghetto and erotic lit. But I can speak to some of the issues Nichelle Tramble raises.

For instance, my best friend of twenty plus years has never read my book. Hasn't even acted like she had the slightest interest in doing so. She doesn't like mysteries. Does it bother me? I'd be lying if I said it didn't bother me just a little, especially when I see her reading other people's books. But she is super supportive of my writing in general. She'll talk me and my book up to any and every one who'll listen. She makes my bookmarks and has offered to do all she can to help me with promotion. She even travels with me to book events. In short, she's a great friend.

But I have had some experiences with people who have been crappy to me. I once was introduced to a friend of my cousin's who was very nice UNTIL my cousin mentioned to her that I had a book published. The woman's whole attitude changed and she literally looked me up and down, rolled her eyes, and walked away. Ouch! Then there are those people I haven't seen or heard from in years who've suddenly, for whatever reason, decided to get in touch with me. Some of them I'm thrilled to hear from, others I wish wouldn't have bothered. I can say a lot of things about this whole publishing journey but I certainly can't say it hasn't been insightful.

Have a great weekend everyone!