RobArt Penguin

When I chose the title I first thought of the Beatles song, but that’s another story. When I write for my blog, I tell myself, I have to be optimistic and forward looking, writing inspiring entries that are uplifting, as though the road through life is always on the up. The truth is, I have many down days, my road through life winds and turns, it’s not a straight path to the light. (At least, I didn’t describe it as a twisted or crooked road, but I was tempted.) Right now, I’m not doing great and I’m more honest when I write about where I am. So, right now, no cheery stories about fluffy cats. I’ve been going through a rude awakening about the realities of book publishing. Before I self-published, my primary task was to get a book out. I didn’t think about what happens after. I assumed with a little advertising I would get noticed, and sell some books. I don’t need the money, but I was hoping for some success to establish my credibility as an author. But getting noticed is tough, tougher than I imagined. I read that about 500,000 titles come out every year: wow! Nothing I’ve done has made a dent. It’s disheartening. (My wife thinks I’m already a success because the book is in print.) Part of my challenge is to overcome an isolated life. I’ve kept to myself for about twenty years and let my contacts fade away. I’ve become my father, who dropped out of society when he was 39. Maybe, that’s the most upsetting part. Anyway, I’m down but still fighting. I will keep pushing and sticking to my plan. I have a bunch of books to put out. I have enough to keep me busy for a long time. I may never be known beyond a tiny group of fans, but I will accomplish a life goal.