Amy and I are in the “city of angels” at the Writer’s Digest Conference this week. I know right? We are stoked. Writers, sunshine, the latest and greatest in publishing intel: we are in indie author paradise.
If you’re knee-deep in the writing and/or publishing process — we’d strongly recommend going to at least one conference a year. Not only is it good for camaraderie and networking, but the take-aways are priceless (our next blog will highlight the gems we picked up).
But here’s a little observation we made in just the first few moments of being here: 4 kinds of authors are really responsible for the revolution that is self-publishing. And they don’t include the “type” of self-published author from back in the day either.
These four types of authors–these super heroes–are the ones on the front line, whose books cracked the ceiling. These writers in the last three years have caused the mea culpa heard ‘round the world from agents, naysayers, and the literary elite. If you’re a Wise Ink follower, chances are you fall into one of these categories.
Which super hero are you?
1. The Movement Maker
You’d recognize this author in a crowded room by their relentless enthusiasm for “the cause.” They’re motivated by change and have the power of persuasion. The Movement Maker published her book as one of many methods to rally the troops and move you toward the finish line — whatever that may be. Her book is a call to action, often the solution to a problem, and always grounded in a bigger picture.
The Movement Maker’s special gifts: passion, diligence, discipline
Nemesis: cynicism, detachment, apathy
2. The Accidental Inspirer
This author perhaps never intended to become an author. A life-altering incident or unexpected epiphany, otherwise known as the “force” swept in and provided awe-inspiring material for his book. He likely shared his story countless times and heard time and again, “you should write a book.”
The Accidental Inspirer’s book will be dog-eared, underlined, and tear-stained by the time you’re done reading it. Most Accidental Inspirers approach publishing uncertain of how well their book will do and most aren’t interested in being a best-seller. The core of his message is not about himself, but about “the lesson.” His hope is that his book will provide readers the gift of inspiration — it’s really that simple.
The Accidental Inspirer’s special gifts: humility, magnetism
Nemesis: smugness, self-admiration, ingratitude
3. The Hardcore Storyteller
The Hardcore Storyteller has a pen and notepad with her at all times. She has several works in progress and enjoys the journey of creation. Her imagination is fluid and has a mind all its own. She’ll write anywhere: the bathtub, at the edge of a cliff, in rush hour traffic. She’s shameless. Her books fight the epidemic of boredom. She loves words, is obsessed with her characters, and embraces the publishing tsunami full force.
The Hardcore Storyteller’s special gifts: resourcefulness, imaginative
Nemesis: Blah, dullness, tediousness
4. The Seer (A.K.A The Sensei)
The Sensei is a visionary. He observes the world around him, seeking ways to push the envelope and operate outside the scope of “normal.” The Sensei prefers existing on the fringe. Like, the Movement Maker, he’s motivated by change, but at the core is an intellectual component that enjoys the thrill of challenging conventional thought. Whether you agree or not with The Sensei isn’t the point. He just hopes you’ll pay attention. His book educates and enlightens with the novel hope to empower you. We’re energized, motivated, and renewed in the Sensei’s foresight and wisdom.
The Seer/The Sensei’s special gifts: intuition, curiosity, and impact
Nemesis: ignorance, complacency, stagnation
So there it is. As you type it out, scribble it down, know that it’s quite possible that you’re wearing a cape and you don’t even know. Your super powers keep our movement going. You keep us going and we appreciate the work that you’re doing.
So…which one are you? Really, inquiring minds need to know!
Apparently I am a Hardcore Storyteller; who knew? I definitely can write anywhere, anytime, and often do. Now where do I get one of those fancy catsuits?
Melissa we’re trying to figure out where to get some suits made ourselves. I wish I (Dara) were a Hardcore Storyteller! I always get jazzed to start the story, but I lack the Hardcore to get it done! Kudos to you!
Fun post. I like to think I’m part Sensei part Movement Maker. My adoring fans can debate which one suits me more. (Also part dreamer if you hadn’t noticed.)
Thanks for the compliment Jason! Good combination — we’d love to know the results of your poll
I’m going to share this with my readers as well! I can’t decide between Hardcore Storyteller and Sensei!
Well, your blog forces me to face the fact that I no longer look good in tights and my Super Hero cape has long been turned around to become a kitchen apron. That said, I see myself more as The Seer (A.K.A. The Sensei) with a dash of The Movement Maker. Having self-published five books about intuition and spirit connections I am committed to “my cause” and love to educate others about the value of our innate intuition. (Here’s where I now plug my most recent book “Boots on the Stairs” *wink*) http://www.MomentsOfIntuition.com
I would be remiss if I did not express my enjoyment at seeing the two of you out in L.A. mixing it up with those California types! Good on you!
I find that I am “The Hardcore Storyteller”, for every inch of that description is true. I nodded in agreement at every inch of that piece.
And I must say that I am quite proud to be The Hardcore Storyteller. It’s a lot of fun–grand adventures in my head that never ends. 
My mind is quite literally in so many different worlds, no matter where I am, and I always, always write. And I love all my characters, big or small, that come out of those worlds. It’s always an exciting thought to see what unfolds from my pen. 😀 I simply cannot stop writing (unless I slam into Writer’s Block, which have happened now-and-then). Ha, ha!
I’m definitely #3. 😀
I would have to say that I am a Hardcore Storyteller with a dash of The Seer (A.K.A The Sensei). I blend my Native American culture with fantasy. This was an interesting article.