I was trying to support a family with writing. I didn't have a private income. I had no other profession.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
I actually went into writing first to supplement my income, which was a strange thing to do, and actually failed.
I am a person who can't teach writing or make a living in any public way, as I get confused when interrupted or overstimulated. In a classroom or crowded room, I all but blank out. So my only income is from novels.
Have a working spouse, because you won't earn a living from writing - not at first, if ever. My wife worked for years to support us.
After seven years of writing - and working many jobs to support my family - I finally got published.
I didn't want to write for pay. I wanted to be paid for what I write.
I worked probably 25 years by myself, just writing and working, not trying to publish much, not giving readings.
What I wanted to do was to earn enough money to pay for my mother's house. When my mother passed away, I wanted to buy it from the rest of my family and keep the house in the family. That was the only reason I even attempted writing for money.
For 10 years, I'd been working as a freelance writer and editor, making money but not a living. It was a good arrangement family-wise, allowing me to stay home with our daughter, but not so great financially or, sometimes, ego-wise.
I held a variety of jobs - most notably ten years working in universities - and kept on writing.
I was 37 years old. I wanted to support myself by writing.