My Boss is Ten Years Old

Writers never like to think of themselves as having a boss. They like to be in control, and that's why they write. But the reality is, a writer has three bosses (which is three times the amount they first thought they had...oh, dear!). A writer's publisher tells them what to do. A writer's editor instructs them on what to say and how to say it. But these are merely the "assistant managers", if you will, to the real boss - a writer's audience.

Many writers have a vague, surreal sort of relationship with their audience. Most have never actually been introduced to their audience, and usually, like some crazy infatuation, have placed their fans on a high pedestal - assuming them to be greater, grander, and all around much more impressive than they really are. Audiences come from all walks of life - they may be doctors and scientists, or homemakers and children. As a writer, you don't choose your audience. Your audience chooses you. They sign off on your paycheck.

Though I imagine myself writing to both the young and old - entrancing the masses with my literary skill, I know this is mainly fantasy. My audience is just learning cursive, multiplication tables, and maybe a little long division. They don't know a simile from a smile. But they know an interesting story when they hear one. My boss is from eight to twelve. What they like to read, I like to write.

And the educated and open-minded may shout their praises from the rooftops about my work, but, at the end of the day, to hear, "Read me more!" from my ten-year-old cousin is the sweetest music to my ears. My job is complete.


Novel update: Haven't written anymore just yet.... Getting to it soon! 223 days to go!