A post in which L. L. Barkat argues that it is time for writers to stop blogging, (http://janefriedman.com/2013/03/15/its-time-for-many-experienced-writers-to-stop-blogging/). As an author with a blog and someone who blogs often, I don’t agree with Barkat’s perspective. Her views do, however deserve a hearing.
Barkat’s main argument is that most blogs receive comparatively few views so writers would be better spending their time (that not reserved for writing books) composing articles for sites with a big audience. Writing articles for big name sites will, in Barkat’s view gain more exposure for the writer than blogging via a personal blog.
I relish the connection my blog, newauthoronline.com provides between mmy followers and I. Such a connection can not exist where one writes exclusively for big name sites where there exists no direct link between the writer and their audience. There is, however no reason why a writer or any other blogger can not utilise their own personal site while also writing for websites with a following running into the hundreds of thousands (assuming one is lucky enough to be afforded the opportunity to contribute to such sites)! Barkat is correct that the writer needs to keep a watchful eye on their blogging to ensure it doesn’t eat up time which could be devoted to writing books.
I have no intention of ceasing my meanderings on this blog so don’t crack open the champagne just yet …!
K Morris - Poet 
I’m not sure about professional writers. But for amateurs and just anyone that likes to write , blogs are perfect to practice and have fun .
Many thanks for your comment. I think (and hope) that blogging is fun and productive for both amateur and professional writers.
Yes, blogging is a waste of time.
Unless you enjoy it.
Thanks for your comment Cindy. You are absolutely correct, blogging is a waste of time unless you enjoy it! Kevin
Reblogged this on alltheeabove.
Thank you for the reblog which is much appreciated. Kevin
I agree with you about the interaction with readers – it is priceless and I can’t imagine life without it! I also find that the blog is a great way to test out characters, storylines, writing styles and such – the feedback I get from readers is very valuable and the blogging experience teaches me so much. For me, it certainly isn’t a waste of time – it’s a part of my everyday life!
Thanks for your comment Lucy. Yes the interaction with readers is extremely rewarding and one learns so much from it. As Cindy says in her comment, blogging is only a waste of time if you don’t enjoy it. All the best. Kevin
Between the friendships and companionship found through blogging and the ability to test ideas and styles, whilst actually practising writing, I find blogging is and has been an amazing experience… and I won’t be quitting soon either!
The big sites are all very well if you really want to increase author profile and sales, but there are other reasons why we write, after all.
Thanks for your comment Sue. I agree, there are other reasons for blogging other than increasing one’s sales. It is, in my experience highly rewarding, particularly the interaction with readers/followers. Kevin
Absolutely, Kevin. And, of course, it is fun too 🙂
Indeed it is fun Sue. Best. Kevin
🙂
I enjoy blogging and interacting with my blogging friends, but I’ve found it difficult to find a happy medium and am still struggling with them. How do I choose who to ignore and whose post I comment on. See what I mean?
Yes, I understand Tess. It can be difficult to get the balance right. Best. Kevin
Sigh.
Good to hear that you will keep blogging!
Thanks JC. I certainly will keep blogging and thank you for following and commenting on my posts, its very much appreciated. Kevin
Interaction with writers is my life’s blood. It keeps me motivated and excited.
Many thanks for your comment. Interacting with fellow writers (and readers) is stimulating and part of the joy of blogging as you say. Kevin
I’m guessing she’s trying to be controversial. As you say, there’s no reason a blogger can’t do both. There are many times though were I’ve read an article written from a personal view point only for there to be no comment box below, so the writer can’t get any feedback or conversation.
Thanks for your comment. I agree with you, its a pity when the person posting doesn’t provide the facility to leave comments. Part of the enjoyment of blogging for me is the interaction with readers. Someone disagreeing with one’s perspective can be fun and, more importantly make one think. You don’t have to change your view but, to have it challenged is healthy and stimulating. Kevin
I’ll bear that in mind if I get a disagreeable comment :0)
Reblogged this on theowlladyblog.
I totally agree with you, and I, too, fully intend to keep on keeping on…
I have met some incredible people through blogging, and will never regret taking it up 😀