Class Distinction Between Authors

It's a sticky wicket to be sure, but class divisions are still very evident in the publishing industry. It's like the 'funny' uncle no one wants to talk about.

Today, I visit Raelyn Barclay where I discuss the classes and whether the lines are beginning to fade. Although some writers do have a snooty disposition about their place in the hierarchy, most don't give it a second thought. 

Like the women's movement and race relations, people eventually realize that we're all just folks. Just because an author made a ten million dollar deal doesn't make her any better than the author next door. More successful, yes. But not necessarily a better writer.

I think it's the industry itself that's plugging us into pigeonholes, perhaps to secure their own futures. The verdict's not clear on that yet, but that's my suspicion.

Stop by Raelyn's and voice your opinion. I'm curious to know what you think of class distinctions and if I'm the only one who noticed them.

As with all my stops, I hope you add yourself to each host's follower list.

Comments

Class distinctions in the publishing industry? Really?? You can't be serious?? LOL. Will hop over there now, as this is an awesome and timely topic!
Sarah Ahiers said…
i definitely think the publishing industry has their meaty hands in the pudding, at least
Dru said…
Good blog post.
Raelyn Barclay said…
Thanks for saving this post for me :) As Karen said, it's a timely topic.
Michelle Fayard said…
Whenever I read a book I truly love, I take note of who the publisher is. Time and again, it's not the "cool and the rich" who resonated with me but a smaller house. It's the quality of the writing that matters the most, and maybe it's easier for that magical partnership to happen when you're more of a name than a number with your publishing team. I also think it's easier for a smaller house to concentrate on titles with a thematic feel to them, which earns even more loyal readers.

An excellent post, Maria; I'm so glad Raelyn hosted you!

Michelle
Maria Zannini said…
I'm pleased that guest post has resonated with everyone.
Anonymous said…
I've never heard of this. But I've lived a very long life and am not surprised at the craziness anymore. But this is so intriguing, I will stop by Raelyn's and see what's going on.

I came over here from my friend Michelle Fayard who interviewed me on my blog tour recently. She thought I might like to meet you and I'm glad I did.
Ann Best, Author of In the Memoir, A Memoir of Shattered Secrets
Shelley Munro said…
Sounds interesting. I'm off to visit.
Misha Gerrick said…
So true, I think that the shake-down in the market are putting us all into a situation where the differences can't mean all that much. Heading over to read the post now. :-)
Maria Zannini said…
Ann: Welcome! I'm glad to meet you.

@Shelley
@Misha
What we see as a shakedown, NY might see as an earthquake. LOL.

Thanks for stopping by, guys.