Should I Write Another Book?
Polling the audience, in a way.
Welcome to Cheaper Than Therapy, a newsletter for 80s babies by Shani Silver.
This is an experiment. In recent months I’ve been toying with the idea of writing another book. The fact that the idea is even remotely enticing to me—given that I know the amount of work involved—suggests I should probably just do it. However, recent (and historical) lack of interest from literary agents and publishers has my confidence deflating like a soufflé in the sun. I can’t do something this hard unless I know in advance that it’s worth it. It took 42 years to be comfortable saying that out loud.
Perhaps I should ignore the people who ignore me and instead talk to those who seem to enjoy what I do without having to be convinced. So below, “Preferably At The Bar” is a chapter from the book I’m considering writing, whose title I won’t reveal but I can say it will marry (whomp) food and solitude in ways I’m deeply familiar with. Most people my age relish in the occasional moment of “me time,” while my life is nearly nothing but. When you take almost all your meals alone, food, nourishment, entertainment, and pleasure become characters you know very well. I think I have a lot to say on the topic.
If you enjoy reading the chapter below, and would like to read a lot more in this vein, preferably in paperback format, speak up. A book is not an easy undertaking, and before I send myself down this rabbit hole I’d like to know what kind of tea party is waiting for me at the end.