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Chrishayden
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Chrishayden
Post Number: 830
Registered: 03-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, November 19, 2004 - 12:15 pm: | 
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I was at a bookreading/signing last night (where do you think somebody who is down with AALBC should hang out--on the pimpstroll??
But I digress.
The author never read from the book. He talked about what was in it (suriving been shot in the head execution style four times, finding Gawd--I guess that would do it for you) but didn't read from it.
The audience did not mind. I was not upset but thought it was curious.
How would you feel if you went to a booksigning and an author did this? Cheated? Violated? Nonplussed? Antepenultimate?
Or would it be okay? |
Whistlingwoman
Veteran Poster
Username: Whistlingwoman
Post Number: 60
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, November 19, 2004 - 12:51 pm: |
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I always prefer that the authors read otherwise I feel like I am at a lecture. Readings and Q&A's are my favorites but sometimes it's not up to the author. Once in awhile bookstores prefer a straight signing. One author protested the bookstore policy because he felt like a signing was just a way to say "hi, thanks for coming, give me some money." He said that reading made him feel like there was more of an exhange between him and the audience. I appreciated that. |
Cynique
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Cynique
Post Number: 1841
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, November 19, 2004 - 01:29 pm: |
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It wouldn't make me any difference if an author didn't read a passage from his book. I'd rather just listen to him talk randomly about himself and his work. Sitting through somebody droning on and on about something taken out of context is boring to me. |
Chrishayden
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Chrishayden
Post Number: 832
Registered: 03-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, November 19, 2004 - 01:48 pm: |
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Actually this was more like a conversation--the writer was not a professional or formally trained. At first I wondered how he was going to pull off making an entire talk around getting shot in the head--it turns out he was not living the gast life but in the wrong place at the wrong time--but he talked about the healing process, medical process--the doctors had said he would be blind and a vegetable and was neither, and how he had only spent nine days in the hospital and didn't have any therapy and all--
Anyway the audience liked it. |
Klb
Veteran Poster
Username: Klb
Post Number: 52
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, November 19, 2004 - 02:29 pm: |
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I can read to myself. I would like the author to come prepared to engage and help you understand thier work. I went to a book signing for April Sinclair a couple of years ago and when I posed a question about the growth of one of her characters . She got POed in a major way.
What do you guys think? |
Chrishayden
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Chrishayden
Post Number: 834
Registered: 03-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, November 19, 2004 - 02:43 pm: |
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I'd rather have the author make a spectacle of his or herself and give me a good story to tell around.
One I got about a poet whose name escapes me now--he was notorious for eccentric behavior. A friend set up a private reading for several collegues in his apartment. The poet showed up drunk, got drunker, said a bunch of crazy things, broke stuff, threw up and passed out.
As his guests were filing out, the host apologized profusely. "Oh, we know him," one of them said. "You don't think we actually thought he was going to actually read tonight, do you?"
(As most authors today are teetotallers and health food eaters, such atrocities are becoming fewer and father between)
By the way, what was your question to Sinclair? |
Cynique
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Cynique
Post Number: 1848
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, November 19, 2004 - 03:49 pm: |
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I love public melt-downs myself. A few years ago, I attended a self-publishing "seminar" conducted by author Michael Baisden and by the time I got through challenging all of the patented advice he was giving, he was flustered and embarrassed. But what did I know? He went on to "big" things and I'm sittin around heckling people on the internet. LOL |
Klb
Veteran Poster
Username: Klb
Post Number: 53
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, November 19, 2004 - 04:06 pm: |
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Nothing highly intellectual. Can't remember the exact wording but I questioned how she felt the character in One Day I Left My Back Door Open had grown. I wanted to know what lessons she felt like the character had learned. Her previous works were about coming of age and learning life lessons. I managed to miss the big picture in this work. |
Lawchic
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Lawchic
Post Number: 147
Registered: 10-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, November 19, 2004 - 06:21 pm: |
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Chris said: (As most authors today are teetotallers and health food eaters, such atrocities are becoming fewer and father between)
Lawchic says: Oh hell, I might as well quit before I get published if that's what they expect.
:::drinking wine and eating fried Empanadas:::
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Sisg
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Sisg
Post Number: 143
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, November 19, 2004 - 06:25 pm: |
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Hahaha Lawchic,
I hear ya! Cheers!
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Emanuel
Veteran Poster
Username: Emanuel
Post Number: 74
Registered: 03-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, November 19, 2004 - 09:01 pm: |
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Well, I went to Terry McMillan's reading of "Waiting to Exhale" at a university in Dayton, Ohio when it was first released. I have to admit that her reading sold me on purchasing the book.
I think it all depends on the venue. As long as the author as some sort of interaction with the readers, I think it's fine not to read from the book.
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Chrishayden
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Chrishayden
Post Number: 840
Registered: 03-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, November 20, 2004 - 11:29 am: |
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Klb:
It doesn't sound like something that would PO a writer--are you sure you're telling us all the revelant information (like maybe you started your query with, "Looky here, beeyotch!"
Cynique:
I can hardly wait to cross swords with you at my first reading in your area--then again, I might have to be nice to you cuz you may be the only person there--if you come!
lawchic:
Hang in there then! All these damn teetotallers and vegematics with their spirituality are ruining the writing game! More booze and junk fueled prose from lawchic! |
Klb
Veteran Poster
Username: Klb
Post Number: 54
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, November 21, 2004 - 11:37 am: |
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Chris,
On my honor. I'm telling it like it is. I thought she would appreciate the opportuniy to discuss the book. Instead she preferred comments like: " Oh I admire your work and I'd really like you to know how much I enjoyed your book"
I was really diappointed because I Really did like her work and would have liked some insight into her creative process.
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Troy
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Troy
Post Number: 176
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, November 23, 2004 - 09:33 am: |
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"Should Authors READ at Book readings"
Well it depends on the author's reading ability and the quality of the book. Some authors can supply both and good book and an engaging reading, some can provide neither, and most fall somewhere in between.
The last reading I went to was done by Colin Channer. Colin read in such a way that you could visualize the scene and the characters. Sure a skilled writer does not naturally. Colin's reading was simply entertaining. He is an engaging speaker.
Chris speaking about poets. I was at an open mic not too long ago and a brother got up to read... This brother was so bugged out that 30 seconds into his piece I begin taking notice of the nearest exit in anticipation of a hasty departure. I appreciate, this may have been his plan, but once I started fearing for my safety I stopped listing to what he had to say. It was only my desire not to appear rude that trumped my desire to flee for my life (what a warped perspective).
Cynique I've heard Baisden speak (not read) this past summer. He is a skilled speaker and comes across as very confident. He however is not an intellectual, he opinions are not founded based upon study and deep insight. As you already know commercial success much more to do with style than substance. Basiden has a style that appeals to the masses and that is all that matters.
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Evilgoon
Regular Poster
Username: Evilgoon
Post Number: 35
Registered: 05-2004
Rating: 
Votes: 2 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, November 23, 2004 - 09:19 pm: |
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There is a line from Percival Evertt's book, Erasure, that sticks in my mind. The protagonist, who is an author, wonders what's the point of book readings. Aren't you going to take the book home and read it yourself? Do we expect screenwriters to act out their movies? How well a reading goes usually depends on the author's theatrical ability; and of course, that's not a reason to buy a book. The question and answer period is invariably more useful than the reading -- assuming that people have good questions *Smiling*. Ultimately, whatever helps book sales will be done. However, we're inevitably creeping towards an environment where the author's personality, and not his or her writing ability, determines success. That can't be good. |
Chrishayden
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Chrishayden
Post Number: 849
Registered: 03-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, November 24, 2004 - 09:55 am: |
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Troy:
I'm surprised you didn't get up and throw down some of your bomb verse yourself. If you don't think the people is ready for you, next time take one of my pieces and lay it on 'em. As long as you tell 'em whose it is it's fine with me.
Paul Beatty, one of my favorite poets, gave one of the worst readings I ever heard. He warned us up front that his primary focus is in the writing and that he was an awful reader. But man, those poems are great--and he's a nice guy and open and in all I still enjoyed his presentation.
Evilgoon:
One of the reasons I got into writing was because I thought it was a mode of artistic expression wherein interaction with the audience was unnecessary. I did not know then about the tradition/institution of readings.
I know there are many authors who have never done a reading and have had successful careers. I find as an author that at a reading I actually have a chance to interact with the audience, see what works and what doesn't. Often I am surprised to find that pieces or passages I thought would be effective fall flat, and I am surprised to find that other parts have an effect. Also I get some tips on things I might want to pursue in future works.
With regard to poetry I find that I never work to shape up a piece so hard as when I am going to read it--I find the reading an invaluable forum for editing and shaping work.
While I am at it, a war story. One time I was at this open mike in New Jersy. Place called Joe's place. Before I read a brother who was slated to read before me stormed into the rest room where I was and shouted at the top of his voice, "If I don't get to read tonight I'm gonna shoot somebody in the face!" He was wearing dark glasses, bib overalls, street gear.
When I got up to read he was sitting right down in front, looking hard.
I gave, in terms of audience reaction, one of the best performances I ever have--just got up calmly and read the thing in a flat voice, didn't even "do" it, as poets are admonished to do.
Afterward, brother came over to my table, took off his shades, squatted next to me, had a nice conversation.
I like to think that my calming, Gandhi/King like spirit tamed the evil within him--but he was probably only fronting from jump and nervous about getting up. |
Evilgoon
Regular Poster
Username: Evilgoon
Post Number: 36
Registered: 05-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, November 24, 2004 - 10:19 am: |
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Chrishayden, I think that authors do have a great deal of interaction with their readers, but that interaction takes place when the readers read the book. Just as a play is meant to be seen not read, a book should be read, not acted out. When, for instance, I go to see someone like Arundhati Roy, I want to talk about globalism's effect on people around the world -- I don't need her to read from her book: I can do that at home. If Richard Wright and George Orwell were still alive, I would want to talk about their views on politics or the role that they see of literature in the world. Spoken Word events have become all the rage since "Love Jones" opened up to brothers the possibility that poetry could get them sexed. However, those little snippets are antithetical to prose. Poetry needs to be acted out, because often times the meaning is in the particular cadence, etc., but the same is not true of novels (for the most part). |
Chrishayden
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Chrishayden
Post Number: 850
Registered: 03-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, November 24, 2004 - 10:32 am: |
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Evilgoon:
And how is an author, say in St. Louis supposed to know how a reader, say in Bombay, India (or even in St. Louis somewhere down the block that he does not know) reacts to his work? Osomosis? Guessing? Mental Telepathy?
How about when an author reads from a forthcoming work--I remember hearing Terry McMillain read in East St. Louis from the manuscript that became "Waiting to Exhale". How was I supposed to read from a book that had not been published yet? |
Klb
Veteran Poster
Username: Klb
Post Number: 56
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, November 24, 2004 - 12:34 pm: |
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I agree that the question answer period id more important than the reading itself. I appreciate the opportunity to engage the author. I don't think there's a such thing as a bad question. How is it defined? As a question that the author is not prepared to answser?
Readings do put authors on the spot when they have never claimed performance or personality as thier gifts. The sad part it allows authors like Baisden to prosper and more talented artist to perish.
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Evilgoon
Regular Poster
Username: Evilgoon
Post Number: 37
Registered: 05-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, November 24, 2004 - 01:09 pm: |
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Chrishayden, the author knows about the views of readers (in far flung places) by book sales in one sense, but also through vehicles like email, conventional mail, interviews and the like. Besides which, here is my view (which to me gets to the heart of the point): what happens between the author and reader is NOT a collaborative process. It can be mutually beneficial, but I don't know of any published author who thinks that the purpose of readings is primarily to know what readers think. Authors have readings in order to sell books -- to get some publicity for themselves; authors who read from forthcoming books do so primarily because they are trying to get publicity for the next book. Don't confuse salesmanship with collaboration. And here's another essential point: the people at such readings are invariably strangers to the author, and letting strangers be the prime determinant of one's creative process goes against common sense -- even to the most "user-friendly" author. Indeed, my view is that any author who allows readers/listeners to think that they are affecting his or her creative process is making a show of things -- especially if that author is successful.
KLB, on "good/bad questions" -- I think that there are some, even though I'll admit that the entire thing is subjective. A good (literary) question to me is one that draws out some theme of the book. A bad (literary) question to me is usually something like, "What were you thinking on page such and such?" or "What was the reader supposed to think when..." People ask the latter questions when they don't want to use their own imaginations to come up with "the answer." That to me is a bad question. Either way, my view is that if the book is compelling, then the author is not necessary for questions (on the book per se). If a book is compelling, you can make your own answers. The magic of novels is that you can make up your own right answers. I have found that talking to other readers is usually more beneficial than talking to the author, because people tend to view the author's opinion as definitive, and that often spoils the magic of reading.
Have a good Thanksgiving everyone -- if you celebrate the horrors inherent in the day. *Smiling* I'm off. |
Troy
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Troy
Post Number: 177
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, November 24, 2004 - 02:06 pm: |
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Chris:
I would certainly prefer to read one of your poems, rather than one of my own. Indeed, my wife caputures my poetic ability at the end of the following page: http://aalbc.com/authors/gabrielle.htm
Chris, I have a question for you: you wrote "I know there are many authors who have never done a reading and have had successful careers." Can you name 5 successful black authors who have never read, how about three? Where "success" is defined as a relatively high number of books sales when compared to other authors in the genre.
See, I agree with Evilgoon, (even though agreeing with someone named "evilgoon" gives me the willes") in that, "Authors have readings in order to sell books"
Michael Baisden said, and I paraphrase, that an author, in order to be successful, must understand that they are now in the entertainment business. We can argue about what he means and whether this is completely true.
However, one thing I can tell you, having observed the industry, for more than a minute, is that if an author is not willing to get out and do readings they may as well not be in the game. Popularity is a major component of sales. Sure good writing can drive popularity, however the more popular author will sell more books. Readings (along with advertising on the web - hint, hint) are a big driver of an author's popularity.
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Reader23
Newbie Poster
Username: Reader23
Post Number: 3
Registered: 11-2004
Rating:
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, December 01, 2004 - 04:28 pm: |
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As a author myself, I feel that an author owes it to her readers when they come out to a book signing. I usually read from my book, then follow that up with a Q & A session.
Check out my new novel:
Emani's Choice available at Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Emani James, wealthy, smart and very sexy, was born into one ofthe most prestigious black families in Atlanta, Georgia. Her mother, Evelyn, was a top corporate attorney. Her father, C.M., owned a Fortune 500 advertising company. However, haunted by a painful childhood memory and the tragic suicide of her father, Emani's life had not been easy. But, she was determined to make a change. Now a junior at Florida University in Greenville, Florida, Emani has chosen to alter her life's direction. She's determined to overcome her past and determined to attend and finish law school. She's also determined to find true love and forget about Randy, the man who broke her heart. Emani finds Latarus and her life seems complete until Randy returns. Now, Emani has to make the ultimate choice.
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Abm
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Abm
Post Number: 2145
Registered: 04-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, December 08, 2004 - 04:12 pm: |
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Funny. I have attended MANY book signings and have never wanted or expected the authors to read from their books.
Because I think the author should be paid based on his/her ability to write, not perform publicly.
Actually, I can't help feeling slightly embarrassed when they do. Because I usually feel that I am either violating their initmate creative space. Or I feel that they are being compelled to do something they otherwise would not do.
And what if the author is not an especially capable speaker? Does he or she risk diminishing the value of their work?
So, for me, an author need not perform book readings. |
Griot
First Time Poster
Username: Griot
Post Number: 1
Registered: 12-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, December 08, 2004 - 05:29 pm: |
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I enjoy reading my novel at book signings and listening to other authors read from their work. It helps to set a tone for me, and it also helps with the pronunciation of some character names used in comtemporary writing.
ABM, I don't think you can violate an author's intimate creative space once a book is in print. It becomes a "free for all."
I agree with Reader23. When I go to see an author, I want to feel involved. Read for me. I can buy the book and read it myself, I can even buy an autographed copy at the book store, but then why have author appearances?
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Abm
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Abm
Post Number: 2148
Registered: 04-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, December 08, 2004 - 08:21 pm: |
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Griot,
The writing either is or is not sufficient for me. I don't need to see/hear a writer perform it. And their do so won't enhance my opinion of what they've created. It likely will only detract from it.
And I don't feel the need to get all into an author's creative space to enjoy their work which is what book readings often appear to be about.
So were I ever to publish a book, it is improbable that I would subject myself to such (Unless, of course, the money is right!).
But, "To each his [& her] own." |
Troy
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Troy
Post Number: 184
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, December 09, 2004 - 07:43 am: |
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ABM, you have been to many readings. Have you ever been to one for an author whose book you have not read, or and author you never heard of before? Sure you can read the book on your own, but how would you know to read the book if you are not familiar with the author's work?
Think of the reading as a sophisticated form of promotion. Where the Q&A is most useful for those who are already familiar with the author's work and the reading is for the people who are not.
Like anything else, some people are better at it than others and some people enjoy doing it more than others. Either way a reading is a good idea.
The authors Griot, Reader23 sentiments are fairly universal.
Oh by the way if you buy Emani's Choice support the web site:
Via Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1413729940/aalbccom-20
Via B&N
http://service.bfast.com/bfast/click?bfmid=2181&sourceid=10354&bfpid=1413729940&bfmtype=book
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Reader23
Newbie Poster
Username: Reader23
Post Number: 4
Registered: 11-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, December 09, 2004 - 10:47 am: |
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Thanks Troy! Actually, you can visit my actual website and support Emani's Choice:
www.geocities.com/c_shane_lanier/
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Chrishayden
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Chrishayden
Post Number: 901
Registered: 03-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, December 09, 2004 - 11:41 am: |
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Troy:
It was rare for the writers of genre fiction to read their work in public anywhere until recently--googobs of white authors were faceless to their publics (indeed many wrote under psuedonyms) and I suspect it would be quite possible even today for the writer of genre fiction to never do readings and sell googobs of books.
Successful black authors who never did a reading--
Donald Goines
Iceberg Slim
Bob Kaufman (a poet he took and kept a seven year vow of silence during which he never even spoke but was fairly well known for a poet)
Dwayne McDuffie (probably cheating, he wrote comic books and now writes cartoons)
John Edgar Wideman appears so infrequently that he ought to be on the list.
Samuel R. Delaney (has appeared on panels and read recently he never read any of his early 60's sci fi work anywhere and it did well)
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Abm
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Abm
Post Number: 2150
Registered: 04-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, December 09, 2004 - 11:04 pm: |
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Troy,
I doubt that I would attend a book signing for book I had not read. And I am even less likely to attend one of an author that I had not heard of. So perhaps I feel as I do because I don't have share the literary need/demands of author that that others might harbor.
But unless the author is going to read significant portions of his/her work (which might be about as enthralling as root canal), I don't see how their putting on some literary dog-n-pony show is going to convince me of the quality of their book. Frankly, what I've witnessed are showy spoke word performances that were predicated more upon the author's oratory skills than his/her literary skills.
Chris,
Wideman is (arguably) my favorite living male writer. So if the 'silent treatment' is good enough for him, it's jake with me. |
Reader23
Newbie Poster
Username: Reader23
Post Number: 5
Registered: 11-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, December 10, 2004 - 01:37 pm: |
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Not every fan wants to attend a book signing and that is a preference. However, for those who enjoy attending book signings, a author reading significant portions from her work is appreciated. It is not a dog and pony show. It is a pleasure. It is very similar to a singer singing for her fans. You do it to show your fans that you appreciate them. |
Troy
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Troy
Post Number: 192
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, December 13, 2004 - 12:53 am: |
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Chris the authors you mention are not even alive. Bob Kaufman "fairly well known for a poet"; isn't that really the same as saying he was an unknown to anyone else other than a poetry officanados.
Chris this in almost 2005, not 1965 times are different, significantly different.
I've been to several Wideman readings so I'm not sure what you are talking about regarding his unwillingness to read. Indeed the when I saw him read he seems to enjoy the experience.
As far as Dwayne McDuffie is concerned; were it not for you I would never have heard of him (http://authors.aalbc.com/dwayne_mcduffie.htm) but that was due to your effort -- not his.
Chris, try again, this time with some contemporary novelists that someone has heard of. Don't try to get slick on me again by sliding some author in there who actually reads (keep in mind I actually observe the industry with more than a passing fancy).
Reader23, you actually bring up a very important aspect of a reading I'd overlooked. One of the things that strikes me about E. Lynn Harris when he readers (other than the number of people present) is that he really tries to connect with each individual. He make sure the audience knows that he appreciates each and everyone present. This is important for building a loyal fan base.
Abm, again don't believe what Chris says about Wideman. I've even seen Wideman sign books in a booth at a trade show (BEA 2003 if memory serves).
Abm, what prompts you to attend so many signings, given the intensity of your negative feelings for the readings portion?
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Philly_bbw
Regular Poster
Username: Philly_bbw
Post Number: 30
Registered: 09-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, December 14, 2004 - 09:35 pm: |
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I think if an author is reading a passage from his/her book he/she should know WHEN to stop reading. I hate nothing more than an author reading an entire chapter. Just sickening. Leave some book left so that I would want to buy it. At the most i'll like a page, something juicy enough for me to want to give you my hard earned duckets. |
Troy
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Troy
Post Number: 197
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, December 14, 2004 - 11:17 pm: |
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Philly_bbw, I'm with you on that one. While I may prefer a little more than a page, a chapter is usually too long. But again it all really depends on the audience, venue, book, author, and other characteristics of the event.
Doing a good reading is really an art; one which authors should invest some time in developing. Just like it helps a great deal if an author can speak in public. Of copurse, being a good novelist should not require that you also be a good speaker, but it sure helps an awful lot in our multimedia media age.
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Evilgoon
Regular Poster
Username: Evilgoon
Post Number: 38
Registered: 05-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, December 15, 2004 - 01:03 pm: |
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This weekend, I was at an event here in New York called Kawanzaafest (or something like that). It was an indoor event with a few dozen vendors, some of whom were book sellers. There was a central stage, on which the few authors were supposed to read. It was a farce. Most people just milled about and ignored the authors. There were no chairs, and people had to stand around. At best, five people stood around to listen to the authors – in comparison to the few hundred milling about. The only time a substantial crowd gathered was when a radio personality at a local station announced the winner of a raffle for a cruise. Here is my essential point: even though, as a rule, I’m dubious of the usefulness of author readings, it’s the audience, and not the author that “makes it all happen.” The more I go to these events, the more useless I think they are. Even when the author has a good reading (indeed, especially when the author has a good reading) I find myself thinking more about the artfulness/artifice of the author, rather than his or her art. Any way you look at it, this subverts the art, itself. As I said before, if I were, by some miracle, to meet Richard Wright or John Steinbeck or any of the (dead) authors I love, hearing them read would be the last thing that would interest me. A brief description of the book (as in what’s written on the back over, along with some philosophical point of view from the author) is all I need to know if I want to read the book or not. Maybe this separates me from contemporary readers, because philosophical points of view are not what they pick up books for. Most people nowadays pick up books because of the media buzz around them; and as such, a glitzy/”well-contrived” author reading becomes essential. |
Philly_bbw
Regular Poster
Username: Philly_bbw
Post Number: 31
Registered: 09-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, December 15, 2004 - 11:16 pm: |
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Evilgoon wrote: Most people nowadays pick up books because of the media buzz around them...
I agree, and to some degree I think every author wants that. The way I see it is this: when it gets to the point where people are buying your books souly because of your name and not necessarily what's between the pages than that's saying something. Not to take anything away from anyone, but for example...when people see that Zane has a book out they are on it from day one. Never mind the fact that it could be garbage in between the cover, because her name is on it she could have wrote mary had a little lamb but because she is popular and a household name people are on it. That's what makes the difference.
Authors need to also learn how to change with the time. At one point erotica was the end all be all. Now readers are looking more towards street fiction. As a writer it's safer to write what you know, but transition and being able to be a chamileon(<-- did I spell that right?) is a plus in this industry if you plan to have a long run at it. |
Troy
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Troy
Post Number: 202
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, December 16, 2004 - 12:02 am: |
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Evilgoon, sounds like that "reading" at Kwanzaafest was more like a side show attraction. That should not be put into the same cateogry as a reading
Evilgoon, have you ever been to any of the readings at the Hueman Bookstore in Harlem? If so, what did you think of those readings?
Philly_bbw, people did not start buying Zane's books because of her name, nor will they continue to do so soley because of her name. People continue to buy Zane's books because they enjoy reading them. Zane has built a reputation. Her name has become synonymous with literature that will get your juices flowing.
While the Street vendors in Harlem will sell Author X's book for $7 - Zane's go for $10 (last time I checked street sales during the summer). Zane demand a premium because people want to read her stuff. Zane would be able to get away with Mary had a little lamb for long.
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Evilgoon
Regular Poster
Username: Evilgoon
Post Number: 39
Registered: 05-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, December 16, 2004 - 10:29 am: |
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Actually, Troy, I have experienced a Hue-Man reading firsthand. To be honest, I've DONE a Hue-Man reading -- about two months ago. The reading, itself, was mandatory -- and passable from my perspective -- but to me the most useful/entertaining part of the evening was the question and answer session. As I said before, it was the audience, and not me that made the evening. I don't even think that it was my reading that triggered their "good" questions, because their questions came mostly from my description of my novels and my views on why I write and what I write about (which I talked about after the reading).
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Philly_bbw
Regular Poster
Username: Philly_bbw
Post Number: 32
Registered: 09-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, December 16, 2004 - 08:11 pm: |
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Troy wrote:Philly_bbw, people did not start buying Zane's books because of her name, nor will they continue to do so soley because of her name. People continue to buy Zane's books because they enjoy reading them. Zane has built a reputation. Her name has become synonymous with literature that will get your juices flowing.
Troy, I will agree that people did not START OUT buying Zane's books because of her name because we didnt know who she was. But after she became popular I would say so. (In my opinion, and of course you don't have to agree)When most people decide on who their favorite author is they automatically by the next book because he/she wrote it(<--the name on the cover). Zane has definitely built a rep as far as telling an erotic story, but she also has a rep for not being able to vary much from her last book. Like maybe she doesn't know how to re-invent herself yet. I'm not taking anything away from her, she's good at what she does, but when all of your books start to sound the same then what? It's not just with Zane, but a lot of others have the tendency to write the same kind of book repeadly until they one day decide to write something different. That's not to say they aren't good writers, I'm saying(in my opinion of course) that as writers we should learn to change with the times and be aware of when to step up the game. |
Evilgoon
Regular Poster
Username: Evilgoon
Post Number: 40
Registered: 05-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, December 17, 2004 - 08:32 am: |
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Philly_BBW, on Zane's reputation and her writing the same book over and over again, the thing I have come to realize, from being around book stores a great deal and seeing what (black) people like to read, is that black readers like reading the same thing over and over again. They don't like originality. Anything that they can't easily categorize -- into erotica or street -- they shy away from. Moreover, they make that analysis from looking at the cover.
On the notion of "reputation," I think that you have to look at the "word of mouth" phenomenon in the black community. The women at the beauty parlor start to talk about it; 13-year-old girls will start passing it about in class, etc., and commenting on Internet billboards that it's "da bomb" or "off da chain," and then all of a sudden, it's a bestseller. These readers all want the same thing, and they want the same thing over and over and over again: "sex and drama." |
Troy
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Troy
Post Number: 204
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, December 17, 2004 - 09:25 pm: |
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Philly_bbw: I believe we are basically on the same page. Assuming what you said is true regarding Zane's "tendency to write the same kind of book repeatedly"; I suspect if Zane strayed too far from her formula it might alienate her base. Besides, this will not effect people who only read one or two of her books.
Evilgoon: please let me know the next time you do a reading in NYC. I would like to attend.
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Troy
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Troy
Post Number: 208
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, December 19, 2004 - 11:09 am: |
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I'm sitting here compiling web site statistics and for AALBC, with a TV window tuned to C-SPAN2's Booktv.
Former President Jimmy Carter is doing a signing at a Sams' Club in Sterling Virginia. No reading, autographs were not personalized, people just got a chance to buy a signed book.
Maybe I'm getting too old or becoming more of a snob, but it seems to me that a Sams club was not the right place for this event. Could they find a library or bookstore, someplace other than a discount shopping mega center?
It appeared the goal was to sell as many books as possible as quickly as possible. Which is cool, and probably the best thing to do if the primary goal is to generate revenue.
Howvever it just did not seem like an appropriate venue for former president of the United States to sling books.
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Evilgoon
Regular Poster
Username: Evilgoon
Post Number: 41
Registered: 05-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, December 20, 2004 - 08:29 am: |
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*Laughing @ Troy* You're probably right about the Sam's Club signing by Carter, but before I get to "snobbish" as well, I've actually done a signing at a Sam's Club myself! The reasoning they (my publicist and the manager at the Sam's Club) gave me is that they wanted to expand literacy. I don't know if that's true or not, but unfortunately, as I've been saying, literacy in America is primarily a consumer activity, and selling jumbo sizes of toilet paper is not that different than selling books: it's all about getting people to buy something; it's not about fostering a culture of reading, per se. To me, you have a culture of reading when you can sit down with others and discuss the book and the ideas within it. That's something that's not appreciated in America (and I don't think that "Dat was da bomb!" qualifies as discussing a book.
Troy, I'm done with readings and signings for a while. I did my last one this Saturday in Philadelphia. As being an author is essentially just about selling a product, I've been a traveling salesman for a few months now, and it's exhausting. |
Cynique
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Cynique
Post Number: 1915
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, December 20, 2004 - 12:45 pm: |
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Jimmy Carter has always considered himself a "man of the people." That's why he went down and strolled along with the marchers in his own inaugural parade for a few blocks. He also favored cardigan sweaters and open-neck shirts instead of suits while he was president. This may have been an affectation and it apparently didn't work because he lost his bid for re-election to the suave Ronald Reagen. |
Chrishayden
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Chrishayden
Post Number: 915
Registered: 03-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, December 20, 2004 - 01:05 pm: |
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Cynique:
This is the first time I have ever heard Ronald Reagan referred to as "suave".
Fred McMurray must have driven you ga ga |
Cynique
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Cynique
Post Number: 1917
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, December 20, 2004 - 01:21 pm: |
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As president, Reagan was glib and well-tailored. What would you call him? |
Chrishayden
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Chrishayden
Post Number: 917
Registered: 03-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, December 20, 2004 - 02:22 pm: |
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Cynique:
You forgot hair dyed and scripted.
I would refer to him as some wag referred to him, as an "amiable dunce" |
Troy
"Cyniquian" Level Poster
Username: Troy
Post Number: 211
Registered: 01-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, December 20, 2004 - 10:01 pm: |
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Chris Reagan was quite daper -- which president had more going on in the style department than Ronald Wilson -- Seriously. Kennedy may have gotten more chicks, but Reagan at 30 years JFK's senior cut a more dashing figure.
Chris you should not continue to dismiss accomplished people as dunces. Besides I think too many people will take you seriously. I'm sure Denzel, Sydney, and Billy Dee color their hair and they are professionals at being scripted. Do you not have respect for them?
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