silversand wrote:
Writing doesn't pay unless you hit it rich with a big novel.
...ya. Unfortunately, the vast majority (about ~97%) of published "novels" sell only ~7000 copies (at ~70 cents a copy royalty, barely enough revenue for a month's vacation). So, your part-time RV repair gig may prove to be way more lucrative :)
I have been writing guidebooks and other recreationally oriented material since 1979 and I strongly disagree. It depends entirely on what kind of "pay" you want. I cannot begin to tell you the many ways in my life has been enriched. I do not write novels and I earn far more than .70 a copy but it isn't about the money. It is about the experiences that you have, the people that you meet, and the doors that are opened to you. There are also endorsements, free and/or low cost gear, tax breaks on your recreational activities that can be costed against royalty earnings, I could go on and on. Finally, there is the satisfaction of knowing that you are sharing something that you love with other like-minded people and the opportunities to preserve and conserve those special places. Although I have not missed a royalty check in over 30 years, I write primarily for non-profits now and accept some contract work from governmental agencies (state parks, etc), and conservation organizations. You will not see my by-line on a lot of stuff that I do, but it pays for a lot of our travel. Please excuse me for high-jacking this post. lizzie
