May Contain Joined up Thinking ...

I think it was Gore Vidal who said that every time someone else was successful a little piece of him died. This was also a view espoused on Anne Lamott's "Bird by Bird."

While I can see where the very human reaction might come from, this is a point of view that leaves me cold. I prefer the thought of Buddha who said (I'm paraphrasing here, people) if someone else's success costs me nothing why should I grudge them.

This is more akin to the reaction I have received from my peers when chatting online or at events. The genuine pleasure that my writerly friends have expressed at the early strong reaction to the launch of BLOOD TEARS has been a perfect counterpoint to Vidal's mealy-mouthed mindset.

So thank you, guys n gals. I appreciate all the messages and smiles (and the champagne).


-----------

Bearing in mind what I said before, I feel I should justify my reaction to the success of 50 Shades of Gray. Yes, I have been seen rolling my eyes and I've been heard moaning about the number of people who have flocked (as in sheep) to pick this up at their local bookshop.

I don't have a problem with erotica. If one handed reading is your thing, go for it.

I don't have a problem with the writer's success. Good on her.

What frustrates me is - where are all these people for the other 50 weeks of the year? If they enjoyed reading these books, there's a good chance they'll enjoy reading other books. Why don't they spend the rest of the year seeking out other stories that thrill/ amuse etc? But they won't will they?


That is all.