I always ask new writers why they want to publish.

Of course, as a writer myself, I know the answer, but I ask because I want them to analyze their goal for their book to make sure it is realistic and that I can help them achieve it. If they are chasing chimera, I must turn them away with my best wishes.

Some common reasons to publish are:

To earn respect… If this is your reason to publish I must dissuade you. Unless you sell a million copies, most non-writers will consider you a pretender, a crank. No, publishing will not earn you respect.

It is incumbant upon the author to know both himself and the value of his writing, thus freeing himself from the vagaries of public opinion.

For monetary gain… In this market, I can almost assure you this is a false hope. 80-90% of books published by major houses lose money. Long odds at best.

For notoriety, fame… This reason is as poor as the others, for it is dependent upon the reactions of others, and thus upon the caprice of the market, of fashion, of public whim.

What then, is a realistic reason to publish?

In my view, only this: the need to close the circle, to communicate, to share, to bring the countless hours of work to closure, to share their vision with the world on an even playing field with the myriad other books published each year. It is possible to recoup the cost of publication and even to deduct the cost of publication from your income, thus recovering as much as 35%. (Contact your CPA for details.) Yes, it is possible both to achieve your life goals of publication AND make a profit—but it's a challenge, and will demand effort.

If this is your goal for your book, we may have something to talk about.

Why do youhave the urge to publish? Have you thought about it?

You should.