Chapter 1: The State of Modern Writing

In today's world, it often feels like the focus has shifted entirely to sales, marketing, and consumerism. From affordable apparel to personal services and creative ideas, the mantra seems to be about selling. This obsession raises a crucial question: what remains of genuine connection in this environment?

Instead of inquiring about someone's profession, it might be more pertinent to ask: What are you selling? And, how lucrative is it for you?

When I browse Medium, I’m bombarded by numerous articles advocating for monetizing writing. There’s little discussion about what readers genuinely want or what narratives might resonate with them. Instead, the emphasis lies heavily on self-promotion. It leaves me pondering: Am I expected to compromise my integrity and "sell my soul" next? It appears some authors may have already done so.

Recently, I encountered a narrative about a woman who chose to embrace the traditional blogging style. Her writing deeply resonated with me, affirming that others share my sentiments. Do you recall the essence of early blogs? They were spaces where writers authentically expressed themselves, shared their insights, and narrated their daily experiences. Readers became invested in the lives of these writers. When was the last time a book or story profoundly affected you? I find myself yearning for those moments.

For those of you who write, consider this: Shouldn’t writing be a source of joy? Or has the drive for financial gain overshadowed everything else? An abundance of articles suggesting methods to earn money on platforms like Medium merely perpetuates the narrative of selling. They present a notion that writing can lead to wealth. Yet, how many authors truly achieve that? How often can we revisit the same themes? If their focus is solely on selling and marketing, can they truly be deemed writers, or are they merely salespeople?

The crux of my argument is this: we need more authentic stories. Genuine narratives from real individuals, not just another marketing pitch. People should feel encouraged to share their thoughts and open their hearts to their audience. After all, existence transcends mere transactions. Our value should not be measured by our financial success but by the quality of our character.

If you happen to know of any publications that feature engaging reads, I would appreciate your recommendations.

Now, I’m returning to my book.

Chapter 2: The Impact of Authentic Expression

In the realm of creative expression, it’s crucial to understand the balance between authenticity and commercialization.

This video, "Chris Webby - Sell Your Soul (Official Video)," explores the challenges and consequences of compromising one's values for success. It highlights the internal conflict artists face when deciding between authenticity and commercial gain.

In "How To Sell Your Soul | Lil Uzi Vert," the artist delves into the temptations and pitfalls of the music industry, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself amid external pressures.