
Dipak Kurmi
The journey of a writer is often romanticized as a solitary voyage of self-expression, a slow and introspective process of crafting words that transcend time and touch hearts. Yet, for many writers, including those with significant talent and years of dedication to their craft, the reality of obscurity looms large. Even as they pour their souls into their work, perfecting their craft over decades, they may find themselves surrounded by a loyal circle of readers but remain largely unknown in the vast literary landscape. This paradox is not a matter of literary ability but rather a reflection of an often-overlooked skill: the art of self-promotion.
Many of us have inherited a perception that marketing one’s work diminishes its authenticity. This view equates the open display of ambition or the pursuit of recognition with vulgarity. As artists, especially writers, we sometimes shun self-publicity as though it sullies the purity of our art. But this mindset is more than a disservice to ourselves; it’s a disservice to our craft and to the readers who might find inspiration in our words.
The stereotype of the writer as a shy, reclusive figure who prefers the quiet company of their thoughts to the glare of public attention perpetuates this reluctance. Writers are often seen as individuals who dream of creating something so profound that it will naturally draw the world’s attention without requiring any conscious effort to promote it. This dream of effortless discovery is undeniably alluring but painfully unrealistic. In a world inundated with voices clamoring for attention, invisibility is no longer an option. The literary marketplace is saturated beyond comprehension, with thousands of books published daily. Against such odds, how can anyone expect their work to rise above the noise without actively bringing it to the notice of potential readers?
For a long time, I grappled with this reality. I believed that my responsibility ended with creating the best work I could — that it was up to fate, or perhaps serendipity, to place my books in the hands of readers. But over time, I began to see that this perspective, however romantic, was flawed. Sharing my work is not an act of vanity but one of respect — respect for the countless hours spent perfecting my craft, for the inspiration that drove me, and for the readers who might find solace, joy, or understanding in my words. Presenting our work to the world is not hubris; it is a responsibility. It is a way of saying, “Thank you for the talent I have been given. Here is what I have made of it.”
To my fellow writers and artists, let me offer a shift in perspective: showcasing our work is not an act of self-indulgence. It is an acknowledgment of the gifts we have been granted and an effort to give back by letting our creations touch lives. Imagine a painter hiding their masterpiece in an attic or a singer performing to an empty room. Writing, like all art, is meant to be shared. When we shy away from showcasing our creations, we deny our art the audience it deserves and ourselves the joy of connecting with readers who might find meaning in our work.
The digital age, with its unparalleled reach and immediacy, has transformed the way art is shared and discovered. Social media, for instance, is a powerful platform that allows writers to transcend geographical and social barriers, finding not only readers but also a community of like-minded creators and supporters. It’s a place to share not just our work but also our journey, building connections that amplify our reach and enrich our creative process. These connections can provide the encouragement, feedback, and camaraderie that sustain us in the solitary pursuit of writing.
There remains, however, a persistent misconception that marketing one’s work somehow taints its purity. This notion arises from an outdated dichotomy that pits art against commerce. But what if we reframed our understanding of promotion? Marketing is not about shouting louder than everyone else; it’s about ensuring that our voice is heard. It’s about creating a bridge between the writer and the reader — a pathway for stories to travel, touch lives, and inspire. In this light, promotion is not a betrayal of art; it is an act of service. It is our way of giving back to the creative force within us and to the readers who long for stories that resonate.
This shift in perspective is crucial in today’s crowded literary world. Good writing alone, once the golden ticket to success, is no longer sufficient in the face of the sheer volume of content available. Writers must now embrace the tools at their disposal, including social media, to ensure that their work reaches its intended audience. Humility, while admirable, should not translate into excessive shyness that hinders the reach of our work. Instead, we must learn to see self-promotion as an integral part of the creative process — a way of honoring our craft by ensuring it receives the audience it deserves.
The act of sharing our work is not about vanity; it’s about paying homage to the talent and inspiration that drive us. It’s about stepping into the spotlight, not for personal glory but to ensure that our words and stories leave a lasting impact on the world. By embracing the stage that the digital age offers, we not only expand our reach but also ensure that our craft continues to inspire and resonate. Writing may often feel like a solitary pursuit, but it is through sharing that we find our community, our readers, and ultimately, our purpose. Let us not hesitate to honor our art by giving it the visibility it deserves.
A passionate columnist, insightful writer, and dedicated policy analyst, Dipak Kurmi serves as the Sub-Editor for a prominent daily newspaper based in Assam. His work, deeply rooted in analysis and editorial expertise, shapes conversations and brings critical issues to the forefront. Residing at House No-3, Hengrabari Housing Colony, Hengrabari, Ganeshguri, Dispur, Guwahati-05, Kamrup (M), Assam, Dipak Kurmi is always connected to the pulse of regional and national discourse. The writer can be reached at dipakkurmiglpltd@gmail.com.