Team Duncan (as we call ourselves ’round these parts) did a massive Spring cleaning push on Saturday. Not the most exciting thing, but definitely gave us all a sense of accomplishment that we have lacked for a little while. Cleaning details aside, I took a load of scrap metal to our recycling center around mid-morning. On the way, my oldest daughter and I stopped by the convenience store on post (called a shoppette) to grab some drinks.
As I entered the store, I saw a large display set up for an author. While I’d never met the man or heard of his work, I felt that I should stop by and talk to him. There was no one around him—maybe I hit an off time—and I questioned the sight. Not to mention, who better (aside readers) is there to support authors but other authors?
Unfortunately, I was in a rush. Though I felt bad, I grabbed my stuff and carried on with the aforementioned dropoff. Chalk it up as a loss, I suppose.
Later that evening, we made a second trip. We stopped by the same shoppette and, lo-and-behold, saw the same author sitting there. Immediately, I thought, that’s dedication! My second thought was that it was the exact same sight as earlier this morning. No crowded table, no lines waiting for autographed copies… no anything.
That was enough for me. I knew I could not pass by him a second time.
As I approached, he stood—polite and professional. When I asked him how he done that day, he gave a kind reply—nothing great to say, but still positive. When I asked what he wrote, the man began to shine.
I don’t have a lot of experience (yet) in the writing business, but I now know one thing—when I begin to market my work in 2013/14, this man will be in the forefront of my mind. He impressed me that much. His story ideas were simple but intriguing. His books were meaty, but there is no hard and fast rule on novel length. It was his delivery that pulled me in.
He clearly worked very hard on his synopsis. He knew precisely when to pause in his oration to judge my reaction. He was simply a great speaker and his heart was in his work.
There is a lot of advice on the net on how to sell your book, how to write a great synopsis, and many other aspects of the craft, but seeing the process firsthand was a breath of fresh air. I know exactly how high the bar is now (and man, do I have some work to do!)
So, until I finish the book I purchased from you, sir, and do an interview introducing you to the rest of the good folks I share the writing journey with online, I extend my sincerest thanks. You gave me more face-to-face in 20 minutes than I believe I have gotten in the last year navigating the craft in the virtual. I appreciate it.
Your turn. What experiences do you have with authors that left a lasting effect on you? Let’s talk about it below!
Image retrieved from ht tp://www.thewritersmanifesto. com/blog/2011/03/21/do-you-have-a-freelance-writing-mentor/
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