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the efforts to achieve and still risk the conclusion I did, as I set the book back on the shelf. Is this what rejection was to be like? How many false selections or unaccepted queries were needed for reaching the one acceptance, and then, how long before the next? Even the plight of a single book, reflected the challenges a writer must overcome. This was no endeavor for the weak of heart or meek.

I noticed the popular. The names of certain ones came up again and again. They could fill complete rows of a shelf. These authors were giants, kings of the book mountain, difficult to overthrow. What were the differences between books of a given author? How different did they need to be? How different could they be? How many descriptions of the same event? What were the nuances of details that justify a distinction?

How could I compete and shimmy my way on spacing, shelving, and draw notice of a consumer away from my competition? No one buys every book. One purchase must preclude another. Even I hunt for newer publications; in non-fiction it is assumed the newer is more current with information and perspective. And classic are the ones whose names come up time and time again.

As I walked out, one of the few times unencumbered by a bag of new books dangling from my arm, I was drained by the complexity and enormity. I questioned how I would succeed. What the time table of the establishment, sustenance and legacy of my particular writing life would be. I was daunted by the potential hurdles to achieve the next published work, and yet contrasted with optimism by every success demonstrated by the numerous possibilities, styles and avenues on exhibit in these very shelves and in ever sale of a book or periodical.

Now and again I will make a determined trip to the book store. It will remind me that my writing will need a little luck, a bit of help, a lot of hard work and is filled with possibilities.

Learn more about this author, Chuck Moyer.
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