Writers motivation
Magazine
The results of our survey show that two things you do not expect are fame and fortune. Only 4% expect to make a fortune but 26% do hope for some income. For many writing is an ambition and 13% want to make a contribution to our knowledge or understanding.
For the majority, writing is an enjoyable compulsion but 11% dream of recognition.
Most of you are willing to share your writing (which is what you would expect from compulsive communicators). Just a couple want to keep their writing to themselves and in the ‘other’ category there were several play writers and web novelists.
Most writers have approached several potential audiences. If the ‘other’ and e-publishing are grouped together they indicate that a significant group are using the Internet to publish their work.
Formal training is not popular but writers' and readers' groups are popular, as is using the web to share the writing experience.
Your optimism is impressive. Most people expect to find a publisher. There is no vote of confidence for self-publishing or e-books.
Half the respondents were from Europe, the median age was 38 and 60% of the respondents were female.
