Originally Posted by ApK
As your Faulkner reference suggests, I think the issue is "writing the literature you want to write" is what's hard to make a living at.
If one happens to have the talent and develops the craft of writing, it's probably not that much harder to get a job 'writing'...instruction manuals, ad copy, speeches, newspaper obits, etc...than it is to be a successful plumber. Plus, you don't have to spend as much time with your hands in dirty water.
"Writing" for a living is pretty much a matter of talent, craftsmanship, and effort. "Writing the books you really want to write" is the thing that's more like a bolt of lighting from a benevolent god.
Sort like the film industry. It's pretty easy to make a living in 'the industry' if you're willing to work at a craft and go where the work is. Becoming an A-list star or director, though....that's a bit different.
ApK
"What? And give up show business?"
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