Can You Make Money as an Author Without a College Degree in English or Creative Writing?
Traditional education paths often emphasize the importance of obtaining a degree in English or creative writing for a career in authorship. However, as we will explore, this belief is not as prevalent as one might think. Very few successful authors have a degree in English or creative writing, and obtaining such a degree wouldn't necessarily be a huge advantage for someone aspiring to be an author.
The Role of a Literature Degree
A degree in literature might be useful for roles involving editing, teaching, or writing book reviews. However, these fields primarily require a solid understanding of literature and the ability to analyze and critique written works. For aspiring authors, a literature degree is not a strict prerequisite, especially considering the numerous examples of successful authors without formal training.
Rare and Self-Taught Successes
While some self-taught individuals are indeed capable of achieving success, it's important to note that artistry and creativity cannot be solely taught through formal education. As illustrated by the analogy of someone knowing how to eat but not knowing how to please a partner, formal learning does not inherently guarantee a commitment to or passion for the craft.
The point here is that art, including writing, is a complex and nuanced process that involves much more than mere book learning. Successful authors often have a unique voice and perspective that can be developed through practice and experience rather than formal education.
Success Without College Degrees
Many literary icons have demonstrated that degrees in English or creative writing are not prerequisites for success. Mark Twain, Edgar Allan Poe, and Charles Dickens, for instance, were famous authors who likely had no formal education in literature. Their success points to the fact that with the right skills and a passion for writing, a formal degree is not necessary.
Moreover, many modern authors also achieve success without a degree. They learn through practice, feedback, and continuous improvement. The digital age has democratized access to publishing, allowing aspiring writers to publish their works and gain an audience without the traditional barriers of publishing companies.
Multiple Revenue Streams for Authors
There are numerous ways to earn a decent income as an author beyond just writing books. This includes writing e-books, penning articles, and providing speeches. Each of these can generate significant revenue and reach a broad audience. Additionally, social media, online advertising, and traditional marketing methods can help authors promote their work and sell their products more effectively.
Self-Taught Authors and Inspiration
The story of Jane Jacobs, a renowned urban scholar and activist, is a prime example of how one can achieve success without formal education. Jacobs never went to college and was inspired by her shared experiences with others who encouraged her to follow her creative impulses. Her work on urban planning, such as The Death and Life of American Cities, is now taught in universities worldwide and has been translated into over 30 languages. Jacobs' success showcases that a passionate and dedicated self-taught author can still achieve renown and influence.
While it's true that having a literature degree can provide a solid foundation, success is ultimately dependent on the author's ability to put their unique voice on the page. As Jane Jacobs once said, "One never knows." The journey to becoming a successful author is more about knowing your voice and passion than about having a formal degree.