You really want to know why I still go to science fiction conventions when I have so many reasons not to go? OK, here are a few:
First, I find it extremely difficult to write while on the road and many conventions require extensive travel. I often think that lost time could be better spent on writing (this is probably a delusion on my part.)
Next, there's the cost. Sure, I get a free pass on fees, but for that benefit I am obligated to entertain the paying guests by sitting on panels and BS-ing with others in the industry about whatever comes to mind. The panel subject is usually just the starting point for a wide-ranging bull session. To be completely honest, I generally enjoy panels and especially answering the audience's questions.
Then I have to pay for travel, the hotel, meals, etc which, while a valid business expense, is also a drain on my rather thin earnings, as it is for all the fen who go.
There's the hassle of fans, most of whom ignore me, damn it! Overall, it's a miserable experience except for the Green room, the hallway encounters, the panels, and all the other opportunities to share moments with fellow writers, editors, fans, and publishers. From these I always gain insights into the business, develop new friendships, hear of opportunities, and generally make myself known in the industry. I have never been to a convention where I didn't come away with valuable information or new ideas to play with. Another benefit are the dinners and lunches with your peers - nothing is more fun that being with a group of writers letting their hair down over a few drinks and some God-awful food.
Sure, I could (and do) keep up with the same people on social media. It's nice, but nothing beats a hug or handshake from a fellow writer at a con. That brief but intimate physical contact reassures me that all that lonely dark time spent on the keyboard is worth doing.
#SFWApro
First, I find it extremely difficult to write while on the road and many conventions require extensive travel. I often think that lost time could be better spent on writing (this is probably a delusion on my part.)
Next, there's the cost. Sure, I get a free pass on fees, but for that benefit I am obligated to entertain the paying guests by sitting on panels and BS-ing with others in the industry about whatever comes to mind. The panel subject is usually just the starting point for a wide-ranging bull session. To be completely honest, I generally enjoy panels and especially answering the audience's questions.
Then I have to pay for travel, the hotel, meals, etc which, while a valid business expense, is also a drain on my rather thin earnings, as it is for all the fen who go.
There's the hassle of fans, most of whom ignore me, damn it! Overall, it's a miserable experience except for the Green room, the hallway encounters, the panels, and all the other opportunities to share moments with fellow writers, editors, fans, and publishers. From these I always gain insights into the business, develop new friendships, hear of opportunities, and generally make myself known in the industry. I have never been to a convention where I didn't come away with valuable information or new ideas to play with. Another benefit are the dinners and lunches with your peers - nothing is more fun that being with a group of writers letting their hair down over a few drinks and some God-awful food.
Sure, I could (and do) keep up with the same people on social media. It's nice, but nothing beats a hug or handshake from a fellow writer at a con. That brief but intimate physical contact reassures me that all that lonely dark time spent on the keyboard is worth doing.
#SFWApro
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