Advice from an Author – 7 things I have learned in 7 years of writing
Keep off the Grass was published seven years ago in 2008. Back then, I had never thought this “hobby” would end up taking over my life. In the years since, I’ve changed careers, taken sabbaticals, exited relationships and entered important new ones, and experienced moments of both overwhelming despair and excitement, all directly or indirectly because of my writing. If you’re a young turk about to break into the industry, here’s some wisdom from an old man (to be discarded in favor of your own experimentation of course!):
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Writing is democratic
Don’t let anyone tell you need an MFA or be Dan Brown’s niece to break into the publishing industry. Both for my India and US debut, I had zero publishing contacts or insider tracks. I approached literary agents the old-fashioned way—through the slush pile and got a deal, first with HarperCollins, then with Penguin Random House. I’m convinced if your book cracks the combination of meaning (a big idea that can change the world) and entertainment (a page-turning story), you will be published as well.
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You have to pay the dues
Both Keep off the Grass and Johnny Gone Down got multiple publishing offers within one month of me finishing the novels. Guess how long The Yoga of Max’s Discontent (published in India as The Seeker) took? One day, right? One week, maybe? 1 month, max? Drumroll please! 13 months. Correct. Despite having a publishing history in India, it took me one year of pitching, editing, querying, editing, and re-querying to land a US deal after having completed my novel. I’ve seen this again and again with almost every author I know. You have to burn in the fire of becoming better and better at your craft before you get noticed. If the first novel is easy, it’ll happen at the third novel, somewhere in the journey, you’re going to pay the dues.
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Choose quality over quantity each time
I see young authors rush to produce a book or more every year. Perhaps you do build a “following” that way like movie stars do. But if the whole point of art is to create ideas that resound in eternity, I don’t know if this temporary fame can be termed as success. The Seeker took five years from conception to release and the effort shows in the way it has touched people’s souls. In contrast, I regret not being more patient with Johnny. It had the makings of something special and would’ve lived much longer if I’d worked longer on it versus rushing it to market. Even though that wasn’t the point, financially too, The Seeker got an international deal, which even as a debut novelist was more lucrative than writing five more bestsellers in just India.
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You can make money through writing
Note, the operative word here is “through” writing, not “from” writing. I’m very frank about my writing finances and have written a detailed post about it here. But a quick snapshot: despite three bestsellers, my book advances and royalties have been <$100K in ten years. Hardly enough to quit a day job for. But don’t write off writing yet! Both Keep off and Johnny were optioned into films. Neither has been made into a movie yet (and perhaps neither will given how long the process takes) yet my net option payments from the movie deals have been a little more than $150K. I’ve never taken up speaking engagements or magazine columns because I kept pursuing my corporate career but if you do, I’d say you could possibly carve out a decent living from writing if the stars align. You don’t necessarily have to believe in the caricature of a hungry, starving artist.
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There’s no substitute for full-time concentration
I took a year’s sabbatical from my job to research and write The Seeker and I think it’s my deepest, most personal story yet. The first two novels were written part-time after work. If I had to do it again, I would take a minimum of six months off to write them. There’s no match for complete single-minded energy directed at the task at hand and art demands the sacrifice of making uncomfortable choices. If I’d made those hard choices earlier, I’d probably gotten an international publishing deal earlier.
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You’re always a beginner
For the launch of The Seeker, I went to the Radio Now office in Noida for an interview. The DJ had never heard of me or read my books. Her boss, who was a fan, hadn’t told her I was coming so after making me wait for a while, she thumbed listlessly through a copy of my book and asked some uninspired questions (eg, why did you write this book? Is this about IIM? variety). For me, this incident is a metaphor for the whole journey of writing. No matter how many copies your previous books sell, you start from scratch, be it in the technique of writing or the act of marketing your book. I taught myself writing again by reading hundreds of articles and books on the craft of writing for The Seeker; and I’m sure I’m going to do it all over again for my next novel. And when the next one comes out in a few years, I’m sure I will meet many indifferent journalists once again. The only commitment you need to make as a writer is to grow and become better with each book because you’ll never arrive. Art expresses the infinite in a finite medium and is never complete.
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Your life will become a little extraordinary
Soon enough, you realize that to write interesting books, you need to live an interesting life. With each book, you become bolder. You fill your creative well with extraordinary experiences. You begin to witness the play of the world as an observer, a part of you untouched by joy or sorrow, just noting experiences for their own sake, filing away as future material, and life starts moving in unpredictable directions. Without writing, I don’t think I would’ve traveled as much or become a yoga teacher or lived in an artist’s retreat in Portugal or even moved to New York where I met Kerry. And where would I be without all of these? That’s why despite all the ups and downs, I’d say if any part of you is craving to express yourself as an artist, go ahead and do it! You’ll never regret it.
If any of the above inspires you to become a writer or an artist, do drop me a line from the other side. And if you do choose to write, don’t forget to sign up for my full video course on How to get a Top 5 publishing deal here.
http://karanbajaj.com/bestseller/
This is the first time I’ve offered a video course and the response has been delightful. Signing up is free!

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47 Responses to “Seven things I’ve learnt in seven years of writing”
Thanks for this ! Beautifully written, and what’s even more beautiful, is the synchronicity and the timing and finding this article.
This has definitely inspired me to pursue my writing career….
The rest, we shall see…
Blessings to you….
Wonderful, go for it. You’ll never regret it.
You inspire me Karan to start my yoga practice again. I quit my job two years ago to work with children as a therapist. I don’t earn as much as I did in my day job, however my life is so fulfilling now.
Thank you so much for writing such honest posts. Stay blessed!
Gayu
Thank you Gayu–and also for sharing your inspiring story. Looks like we’re seekers on the same path.
It is very interesting and knowledgeful for me. I am interesting for writing from last year. A writing idea, when & how came in my mind I don’t know. I have decided writing and I have a great subject in my mind. Your site is very helpful for me. I try to follow your step giving on website and try to understand the techniques of writing.
Great! Glad I could be helpful.
Its the simplicity and straightforwardness in this article that forced me to leave a comment. You have explained the many insecurities and doubts that an ordinary aspiring writer would be faced with. I now strongly feel the need to pursue the dream I always had, to write and publish.
Absolutely, go for it Anna. You’ll be richer for the experience no matter the outcome.
its very inspirational karan..thank you..and its awesome..the thing thats most inspires me is your journey and your down to earth polite nature of sharing this very thing with the world.
Very kind words, Namrata, thank you.
Dear Mr. Bajaj,
The whole article has been truly inspiring, but I cannot help confessing that point no. 6, ‘You’re always a beginner’ is particularly exceptional. The way the journalist’s indifference and ignorance about your work made you decipher the true picture and added something very important to your insight is simply amazing. I’m truly moved by the litotes you’ve used without criticizing the journalist. I do not know whether you’ll acknowledge this fact about yourself, but, to me what makes you unique as a writer is, you experience both good and bad, but at the end we always get a humble piece of wisdom that comes out smiling from the printer of your mind.
Sir, I’ve had the privilege of receiving your reply in my mailbox. I was deeply touched by the fact that in spite of being a busy corporate personality and a successful author with tremendous insight, you cared to read my mail and cared to reply as well. Right now I am reading ‘The Seeker’, the amazing journey of Max. It’ll take some time finish the book and as per your request I’ll post my comment. I’m writing a book right now and it has been possible because of your inspiration you provided me via email. I fervently hope that you have many more interesting thoughts in the pipeline and we’ll get to read them soon in the form of books.
Wish you and your family good health and good luck.
Thanks & regards,
Soumik Basu
Thanks for your thoughtful comment, Soumik. You express yourself very well. I’m glad you’ve started writing–I think your words will make a difference in the world and I really look forward to reading them. Please keep in touch.
Thank you once again for your kind words Sir.
Karan, I’ve had a pleasure of talking with you a couple of times recently and I’ve to come to believe you are a genuinely good person. That honesty comes out through your writing. Embarking on the same journey as yours I can’t agree more with everything you’ve written here.
I wish you all the best for your latest book and I’m sure this honest approach to writing will take you to places.
Take care.
Ah thanks Suman, kind words. Appreciate it. And good luck with the book, agent search etc.!
I love everything you write. Your journey is everything I hope mine will me. You inspire me deeply to explore new dimensions of myself, some of which I didn’t even know existed. And that fact that you say, “I read every email” in every email is really touching – whether or not you do.
So this is a nothing-really email – just a THANK YOU for touching my life, as I’m sure you do others as well!
Have an awesome day Karan!
Thanks Komal! Indeed, I do read every email–and try to reply to as many as I can. Thank you too for reading my words and inspiring me to keep writing/sharing.
You cannot even imagine (Even though you are a writer) what confidence this post has given me. I can just say that since Bcom till now, i always felt that i was an arts guy who landed up in commerce, and the sad part is i am still in the clutches of commerce, only to be freed by arts very soon. Bless me. God bless you Karan. I must say you are giving a meaning to your name, Danveer Karna, the one who donates selflessly.
Super Janmejay, so glad I can help. Indeed man, I can’t promise art will liberate you from commerce completely but it will definitely elevate your life in subtle ways. Good luck–always reach out if I can be of more help!
I am an aspiring writer – have been so since my childhood days. While writing poetry comes very naturally to me, I love to write stories and touch people’s hearts!! Your post has inspired me as I have been considering on taking a sabbatical in order to do some serious writing. I believe that my path is clearly etched ahead of me and I need to do what’s necessary to fuel my artistic instincts and take them forward. On one hand, I love dancing and have been teaching dance to kids over the weekends, apart from my IT job on the weekdays. It’s about time I took up writing seriously too.
Thanks for having inspired me..
Do it, Snigdha! Between dance and writing, you’ll be fully occupied with your sabbatical–and it’ll open interesting new windows for you.
Dear Mr. Karan,
I have read your book the Seeker, Really it has opened my eyes. I am book lover and I always tell my friends that book is my 2nd wife. Now I am also planning to start wring books . Let us hope for the best.
With regards.
Kamalendu Pattnayak
Thanks Kamalendu! Happy you enjoyed the book and good luck with your own writing.
Karan i see writing as everything and most importantly a catharsis and a meditation. But i have this doubt. Does a book requires to be perfect when sent to the publishers and agents, or just the story needs to be clear and they will polish it. Because when i read a book, it seems perfect which i am not able to find in my draft. Please guide on this one, and if possible also write a blog on how a draft should be when one sends in to submissions. Thanks
Janmejay, thanks man. I’d say to get published in the US, you need a very, very polished draft. I’d recommend using a freelance editor before beginning the submission process. Did you see this article? http://www.karanbajaj.com/writing-creativity/how-to-become-a-better-writer-the-only-writing-resource-you-need/
Hey Karan, I can relate to a lot of things you’ve said here and this article has really inspired me a lot.
I specially liked the part about being a beginner… if you can think so then it makes me think..
Would love to know a few sources to improve writing skills..
http://www.karanbajaj.com/bestseller/
Yes, no matter the perception of success, every writer faces a feeling of failure with each new book. Keep at it!
Wonderful Karan. Beautifully you have described the journey of an author. Your words and works are genuinely guiding this young generation.
Thank you Rahul! So glad you’re finding it useful.
Sir,
I have some concepts on which I think an interesting novel can be built. The only hindrance I think I have is the knowledge of my English and my ability to place appropriate sentences for a worldwide audience. Being a successful author, what do you suggest me to do to improve my writing skills. I am 32 and willing to learn. Sir, can you give any suggestions on the nature of books to be read, dictionaries to be consulted and analysis to be done to know the level of my English knowledge?
Sudheer, just by asking this question, you’re well on the path to improvement. Start with this list, then I’ll give you some more?
http://www.karanbajaj.com/writing-creativity/the-ten-books-that-will-change-your-life-guaranteed/
Very good write up
Thanks Ashish!
I’m working on my first story as a part time, since I need money, so I can’t quit my job. Thanks for the motivations, sir.
Yep, I wrote my first two novels on the side as well. Keep going!
Thanks Karan. I needed an article like this to get back on track after having completed 90% of by first novel 3 months back and not writing anything since then. You story defines the word ‘Courage’ which most of working professional lack, and I am no different from them. I hope to finish my book soon and leave a thanks text to you. And hopefully You’ll read my book someday.
Love it! I look forward to reading it.
Dear Karan,
There are very few books I have read back to back. ‘The Seeker’ is one of the few ones. I have recommended and gifted the book to many friends and families. I am now reading ‘Johnny …’. But ‘The Seeker’ remains closest to my heart.
Thank you for these very informative articles, My husband and I have started meditating based on your Meditation article. I am already working with an editor on my first novel and your articles are extremely helpful to me.
May the Universe give you lot more so you can continue to give it back … I hope to see you soon in NYC. God Bless.
What a lovely thought, Neena. I appreciate your kind words and wishes esp. in advance of The Yoga of Max’s Discontent’s release. Indeed, would be a pleasure to catch up in the city.
‘There’s no match for complete single-minded energy directed at the task at hand and art demands the sacrifice of making uncomfortable choices.’
I’m gradually realizing the importance of this. I used to go blank when I sat to write. There was this intense urge to check Facebook or Twitter. However now that urge has reduced a lot (yet to completely get over it)
Thanks for inspiring many writers
Best wishes
Gayatri
Thanks for inspiring me with your comments always Gayatri!
Karan,
Thoughtful piece I always enjoy reading open hearted writing!
Marty
That means a lot coming from you, man!
Hi Karan
Really inspiring. I left my teaching job 18 yrs ago to write, write and write, though I have a small education centre which helps me to earn my daily bread. I can relate to this post of yours because writing is my spiritual bread and butter. I have several books of poems and two novels, but am interested to get my next story — The Indian Crow-the untold story of the common man — published in the US, and thus looking for an agent.
Thanks for sharing such a wonderful post.I could gather lots of knowledge about writing through your post.Of course experience always matters in every field and your valuable advice as an author would prove effective in the near future.I am very fond of writing and I have started my career as a professional writer so your advice is highly acknowledged.