It is not without a sense of irony that I write this on the four-year anniversary of 7th Son: Descent’s Podiobooks.com debut.
I’ve been sitting on this news for a few days, pondering how to best present it to you — you very cool, very gracious people. I realized that my breed of pondering is often an excuse for procrastination, so I’ll get on with it and articulate this as clearly and constructively as I can.
St. Martin’s Griffin, the publisher of 7th Son: Descent, has chosen to not publish the 7th Son sequels. As with every aspect of our relationship, St. Martin’s was kind, clear and up-front with me about this. This honesty has been something I’ve treasured since I signed with the company in 2007. I consider the team with whom I worked at St. Martin’s to be absolute professionals, genuinely interested in my talents, my ideas and my work.
Brass tacks: 7th Son: Descent’s sales performance has not made a compelling business case for its sequels. Given the heroic outreach I and St. Martin’s marketing/publicity teams put forth to effectively promote Descent, and the ultimate sales results of that outreach, the publisher believed releasing a sequel would not make good business sense. Despite my disappointment as 7th Son’s creator, I am able to see the wisdom of St. Martin’s decision.
I will not attempt to find another publisher for 7th Son’s sequels.
I am not angry about these circumstances. Publishing is a business. Authors who earn a place at a publisher’s table must justify the monetary resources required to feed them. St. Martin’s took a chance with 7th Son: Descent, and that risk has not yet paid off. I fully understand this, and so should you. I remain head-over-heels for the folks at St. Martin’s. We’re all still friends. My editor there is very keen to see the next J.C. Hutchins project.
Typically, I’d present a cheerful, rousing plot twist at this point — a cheeky Hey, everybody!-style rallying cry for which I’m so well known. This time, I cannot.
It became very clear to me very quickly that 7th Son: Descent was not performing as expected. I dare not assign responsibility to anyone but myself for this. Examining the lead up to, and release of, the novel, I cannot see how I could have promoted it any better than I did. I literally went broke promoting this book and Personal Effects: Dark Art (another novel that will not have a sequel; it also underperformed). I conceived numerous brand-new online marketing campaigns that dazzled you and others. I asked you to purchase the novel, and many of you did. I asked my professional allies and friends to assist me in spreading the word, and they did. Those fans and conspicuous colleagues who did not lend a hand undoubtedly had their reasons, which I accept.
7th Son: Descent made history in the way it was promoted: It was the first mainstream novel to be simultaneously released in free serialized audiobook, PDF and in text format (at BoingBoing.net). It was the first book to use serialized prequel audio short stories as part of its release promotion. It was the first novel to have an accompanying music album (the Anyman EP) sung by a character from the book, timed to its release. I am very proud of these groundbreaking accomplishments.
I am also very proud of the long hours I spent re-recording the 7th Son: Descent serialized audiobook to celebrate its print release, and the effort producer Shawn Bishop put forth in creating an excellent product. I also stand by the time investment required to participate in nearly 30 guest posts/interviews for blogs willing to promote the book (for which I am extremely grateful), and more than 40 podcast interviews (for which I’m equally grateful). I do not regret spending thousands of dollars to personally finance additional promotion for Personal Effects and 7th Son. When you’re up at bat, you swing for the wall.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to make a living wage telling stories. That day has not yet come, and I fear that it won’t, unless some serious decisions are made. I’ve made these decisions, and I apologize for how this will affect you.
Creating podcast fiction does does not generate direct revenue for me. Based on anecdotal and statistical data, very few people are willing to pay for general podcast content, much less podcast fiction. Since my goal is to make a living wage with my words, the current monetization models — including in-show advertisements — will not deliver this. Dedicating time and effort to my non-fiction podcast projects will deliver equally underwhelming monetary results.
It is also apparent to me that using the Free model to promote a tangible product, such as I did with 7th Son: Descent and Personal Effects: Dark Art, does not deliver sustainable sales results. I have friends — some of whom are my best friends, the most talented people I’ve had the privilege to know and work with – who have absolute faith in this model. I treasure their trailblazing efforts and enthusiasm. My faith, however, has been fundamentally rattled.
Put simply: The new media model viably supports only the most blessed and talented of authors. The time, effort and money I invest in entertaining you for free pulls my attention and talent away from projects that can generate revenue. While podcasting, podcast fiction, and — most importantly — your support and evangelism has positively impacted my life and career in ways I’ll never be able to fully express, I cannot continue to release free audiofiction if I wish to make a living wage with my words.
My plans to release a serialized audiobook of Personal Effects: Dark Art are now aborted. My plans to release The 33 as free audiofiction are on hold. I’m particularly heartbroken about The 33, as I’m very proud of the world and characters I’ve created so far. Unless I experience a financial windfall, or conceive a monetized podcast approach that provides equitable compensation for the effort I invest in writing, recording and editing those stories, I cannot dedicate the resources to freely release The 33.
While these decisions were not made in haste, you are well within your right to feel disappointed or betrayed. My soul aches, for I truly feel that I am letting you down. I do pray you’ll look back at the four years of entertainment I’ve provided, and cherish those stories and memories. I certainly do. Rest well knowing that I owe you far more than you owe me. You made my dream come true. How many people can claim such a miraculous thing?
For the past two years, I’ve nigh-obsessively wondered about the viability of podcast fiction, and if this distribution method is as powerful and disruptive as it was during its scrappy, eye-opening 2005 and 2006 roots. It’s far too early to say. Its days of newness are certainly gone … but new creators are coming on the scene every day, with new stories to share. I wish them stratospheric success in on- and offline marketplaces.
It’s also far too early to say if this model will deliver the kind of mainstream publisher attention it did for creators such as Scott Sigler, Seth Harwood, myself, and others. Blessedly, several additional podcast novelists have secured deals with mainstream publishers; their works will debut in bookstores in the upcoming months. I hope the Free promotional model continues to serve them well, and that the listener and creator communities enthusiastically support them.
I pray this model becomes a viable, sustainable business-driven movement — and not the fleeting moment I fear it may be.
Regardless of its fate, I cannot currently contribute to it, if I wish to make a living wage with my words. Aside from the sporadic release of nonfiction audio interviews, my podcast feed is going dark. I’ve spent years “feeding the feed” — my podcast feed, that is — and the real-world results of that effort have put in me the red emotionally, creatively and financially.
Some of you amazing people — you very cool, very gracious people — are owed far more than an apology. I have made sincere obligations to you, and will deliver on these promises. Fans who are owed Personal Effects “swag bags” and 7th Son “Beta Clone Army Rewards” prizes will receive them. You monetarily supported my work in good faith — faith in the novel, faith in me — and I will absolutely honor these obligations. I beg for your patience as I right myself financially, so I can smartly dedicate the monetary resources to making these promises a reality.
For those who bought 7th Son: Descent and Personal Effects: Dark Art, know that I owe you my undying respect and thanks. For those who experienced the audio and text content for free and were not persuaded to monetarily support my work, I appreciate your time, and hope you were entertained.
For the hundreds of fans, friends, and colleagues who went the extra mile in generously sharing the news about 7th Son and Personal Effects with others: I treasure your support above all.
When folks ask me for writerly advice, I usually reply with two words: Writers write. What I rarely say, but absolutely believe, is that writers should be paid for what they write. It’s time for me to write. To write my ass off, to tell stories that can be sold in many media, so I can continue to entertain you, and achieve my career goals. I am honored by your friendship, and hope I have clearly explained the circumstances that led me to these difficult decisions.
A final word regarding the 7th Son sequels: I may self-publish Deceit and Destruction later this year. If I do, I’ll let you know. It seems like a shame to keep the series’ “mad hacker” in a drawer for too long. Kilroy2.0 needs to be everywhere.
Thank you for your love and support in the past, the now, and the to-be.
With endless affection and appreciation,
–J.C.
JC, I am with Melzer on this, reading it brought tears to my eyes also. I’ve always loved and supported your work. I hope something happens in the in the near future, the sooner the better, to turn things around for you and your writing. If you do decided to use a pay to receive content system I will be there to buy it.
Also JC, as far as I’m concerned there are no apologies or anything owed necessary. Over the last several years you’ve given us so much of your time, blood, sweat and every bit of yourself in delivering to us your most excellent content. I know I’ve loved every minute of it! And all that giving my friend, is worth more and means more to me than anything money can buy.
Dont give up on your dreams, though they may have to sit on the back burner for a while. I know they will come to fruition at some point in time.
You Rock JC! I will always be here if ever need anything.
Pons
I’m too stunned to put my thoughts into meaningful, constructive words.
Hutch, be proud of your work; it stands on it’s own. The publishing business model makes no sense to me. Where is the professional career building support which allows writers to develop a reading audience and perfect their craft ?
Like everyone has said before … We love you man. Now do what you must and we will wait patiently for your return.
Going to echo many of the previous comments. So sorry to hear this news. Publishing is rough. Your honesty and dedication to the medium and to your work truly shines. No matter what your next endeavor is, we are all behind you.
Peeps, you warm my heart. Thank you again for so much love.
The only thing I can think of to say to you is thanks. You always go above and beyond, whatever it is you’re doing, so yeah, step back, take a break, and get your write on. I’ll be looking forward to your return, whether it’s a podcast, or in print.
JC,
I am saddened that this didn’t turn out the way you, we all, had hoped. But I know you have touched the lives of thousands. You’ve told us stories that we will not forget. And I know I, and I’m sure many others, will follow you wherever you need to go for more of those stories.
You didn’t think you were going to get rid of us that easy, did you?
xxxM
Damn, I think I’m actually gonna cry. of course it is late here, maybe lack of sleep has something to do with it, but, damn. This hurts to read, so I can’t even begin to imagine what it felt like to write.
I know for certain though, if I can, I will be there to buy whatever product you put out next dude. I feel like I owe you. I know that people accuse me of blowing smoke and being a suck up when I say it but honestly, that book of mine, the one I gave you a copy of at BaltiCon last year, that story was finished, that physical book EXISTED in large part because of you and what you did with 7th Son. Rightly or wrongly, whether you want me to or not, I feel like I owe you one dude.
You’ve done amazing things and I’m sorry sales didn’t meet your incredible writing and all the groundbreaking and cool promotion you did. I’ll follow you anywhere and certainly will buy whatever you release, whether via a pay podcast, self-published Lulu.com, NY traditional print, ebook, or whatevs, man; I’ll put my money where my mouth is.
In short: I’m a long-haul fan and have the patience of Job.
Best to you, always, and we’ll be out here ready for whatever you do!
I was going to use my own blog post to comment on your news, Hutch, but at the moment, at least, my own thoughts are too diffuse. So here I be.
First: apart from the promotional obligations you mentioned, you don’t owe your audience a thing. On the contrary — every single person who enjoyed your work and never compensated you for your efforts owes you… $5.00 from every damn one of them ought to settle the debt.
Yeah. I know. That would make you a millionaire or better, wouldn’t it?
That’s called neo-patronage, and as many people know, I’ve been preaching it since 2005, though it has yet to be adopted by enough people in the collective audience to be more than a nice, optimistic dream.
I respect, understand and, in fact, support as very wise your decision to no longer release free podcast versions of your fiction. Podcast fiction is an accepted tool for promoting the written word among a small segment of authors, but I have to wonder if the very thing audiences and authors prize about the medium — that sense of friendship, connection and intimacy — also, in some cases, shoots the chance of compensation in the foot?
I mean, when a stranger gives you money for something you did, that’s business. When your friend tells a great story, that’s just fun.. right? What do you mean you want me to pay you for that? Aren’t we friends..?
(I said “in some cases,” fellow fans. Hackles down!)
J. C., I strongly encourage you to throw 7S II and III out there in self-published formats on as many platforms as possible. The investment is small (or zero) and, especially when it comes to electronic formats, the return is practically all gravy, for as long as you decide to keep them available. I know you know this, obviously… I’m just adding my voice to those who support the idea. Get what you can from your hard work, for as long as you can.
I want to say something to many of the other folks who have commented (and you guys have been universally awesome – I would expect nothing less):
J. C.’s decision to not podcast his fiction and instead invest his efforts in writing for media that will actually put money in his bank account is not a reason to be sad. It’s not a setback. It’s not an admission of defeat. It’s not a failure.
It’s the best fucking thing you could possibly hear from a writer you respect and admire. It means you’ll ultimately get more content from him. When that content comes, be there like you’re there for all the other people in your life who provide valuable services. Be there with your wallet open.
Finally, back to addressing you, J. C. Hutchins — you who are one of the most driven, talented, sincere, caring people I know or have known. For you, I don’t have any violins to play. To you, I say “congratulations,” because, dude, look at where you are and what you have goin’ on.
Kick ass. You continue to be an inspiration.
I once said that you give us aspiring writers hope. This doesn’t change that one bit. You still do! In spades!
While I’m sorry to see you cut back on the free content, it’s completely understandable – you’ve got to pick your battles, especially if you’re fighting the clock. There’s only so much time in which to get things done!
The work you’ve done to date is nothing less than phenomenal and I’m confident that some time soon enough people will recognize it that you’ll be able to write full-time. If there’s anyone who SHOULD get the chance to make a living solely as a writer, it’s you.
Hutch,
It upsets me to see how disheartened you are about all of this. You’ve given us quite a bit and I look forward to supporting you in all future endeavors!
Just another comment to say thanks, and sorry, I guess – it’s something we all wanted to work out for you.
Maybe the future is the audio prequel / print only story, like “Dark Arts”? I liked getting to know the characters a little before the story there. All the best for whatever you decide to do from here on out – I hope you’ll keep us all updated with it.
As someone who believes that for art to be part of our shared culture it needs to be accessible to everyone, including those who can’t afford to pay, this is indeed disappointing news. I have this belief of course, as a reader, rather than a writer with bills to pay.
It’s also surprising news. I’m late to the 7th Son series and am currently half way through Destruction. This is an incredible tale full of thrills and “Ohhh” moments, a great storyline, you’re well known cliff hanging bastardry and even moments of real heartbreak(Father Thomas). All in all, the print release should have been a sure fire hit.
I bookmarked the print release page on your website only yesterday with a view to buying it so I sincerely hope you are going to release the whole series in print as this is something I want to own and hold in my hand. Actually, what would be great is a hardcover featuring the whole trilogy. Is this feasible?
That sucks Hutch. But there’s only two ends of the candle — and every time I saw or heard you, you seemed to be burning at least three of them. If anybody has earned a break…
There is a quote about climbing mountains and sleeping at high altitudes, that has brought me some solace in difficult times.
“All that is required, is to lay down. Not just one’s body, but one’s soul and the whole of one’s self.”
You’ve climbed mountains Hutch. You’ve tested the heights and shown us what’s possible.
Rest well and climb again.
J.C.
I absolutely love your writings. I am sad for the situation that has arisen on your part. But you must do what you must to survive. Starving artists are painter and sculptures, not creative wordsmiths as yourself. As was mentioned on an earlier post. If you set up a download pay site for your work, I will be inline online to get it. Best of luck, and keep us informed of your upcoming agendas. Your fans speak!
(Check with Greg on how he has his pay for download set up, it works very well. He has absconded much of my meager duckins.)
Jess
your friendship has touched us too. if you need anything, just ask.
What you did there, Hutch, is pull a Dr. Who move – you are living to fight another day, and saving those you can as you do it. Look after the Hutch, and your fans will look after you (as best we can).
I just wish there were more of us out here so that this business model would have worked for you and other folks. However, the more important thing is to know that you are doing what you love to do and as a friend I hope that’s what you’re able to do. We’ll all be here watching and at the ready to help if we can. All the best.
I won’t pretend that I’m not disappointed by some of this, but I’d like to thank you for all the content you’ve provided on your feed so far.
You must pursue the route that makes sense for you in the circumstances in which you find yourself! I know that the stories you tell are engaging and entertaining, so do please keep trying to tell them somewhere. You just need to get the right break and will surely find the great success you richly deserve somewhere.
I’m glad that you mention the possibilty of self-publishing the rest of 7th Son. I’d love to have two more volumes to file on my bookshelf to complete the set. I’ve no idea about the financials of publishing on Lulu or somewhere similar, but I really hope that the numbers make sense for you to do this.
All the best.
I read a ton. I always have. I heard about 7th Son from a friend, immediately grabbed the podcasts and proceeded to listen to one of the best stories I had heard in a very long time. Then when Dark Arts was unleashed….the interactive aspect of that entire story and format was/is truely ground breaking. I am saddened to think there may be no more stories like that.
I hope and pray that you reach above and beyond your goals. I for one will be glad to shell out for your future works.
Thank you, Hutch.
Thank you for all the hours – hell, years – of entertainment. You don’t owe anyone anything. We owe you.
When your next project is ready, show me where to line up to make good.
I’m crushed. Absolutely heart crushed. The ‘system’ has failed you J.C. – never, ever the other way around. Your work is amazing, your talent second to none. I truly hope you know that. Please know that whatever route you take, you have legions of loyal fans that know the value of your work. And better yet, fans that will purchase your work regardless of how it is published. Love – Lynette
Like I said before, J. C., you have proven yourself in the eyes of my family. Any book graced by your hand will find a place on my bookshelf, guaranteed.
You go do what you gotta do, hoss. We’re always here for phenomenal authors like you.
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!
This is so sad, let me know how I can help, and where to send the $5 that MWS was talking about.
I’m gonna go buy another copy after work.
Thanks Chris.
I’m sure most of us will be right here, waiting to act on your next move.
A body has to eat, Chief…
Hutch, both as a fan and as a fellow writer, I can honestly say that you need to do what is best for you. Whatever it takes to get more Hutchins fiction, regardless of price to the fans, is the best business model to follow.
Just a quick note of some clarification, in some part respoding to matt Selznick (another fellow for whom I have a great deal of respect). Certainly on my own behalf, but I believe on behalf of all the other outpouring of love and support for Hutch that’s been posted here. We aren’t sorry that you’re having to make a decision to not release free content. We aren’t sorry that you need to take your career in a different direction that will pay you what you deserve. Clearly you deserve to be paid for your work, and for the enjoyment you have brought so many of us. We’re sorry that this project didn’t blow the doors off. We’re sorry that 7th Son didn’t turn out to be the rip-roaring commercial success it clearly deserved to be, and no, that wasn’t for any lack on your part. Man, you really worked it. You were out there and doing amazing stuff with no promo budget. We, including I, should have done more. (At least some of us, like me, for instance.) No, we aren’t sorry for anything more than that you didn’t get what you so richly deserved from this effort. We’re sorry that this dream didn’t turn out the way we all would have liked. We mourn this turn of events with you, and our hearts ache for you. Not for ourselves, not for the decisions you have made, but for you, our friend, in a very heart-wrenching time.
JC,
I echo Selznick’s sentiments above. Congratulations! This is a time for excitement! Sad, do not be! You made the podcasting space work for you, your marketing was kick-ass, and now it’s time move forward. You deserve a writing career, and you’re going for it. I, for one, am really psyched for you. Well played, my good man.
Also I support Selznick’s idea that you consider releasing everything in e-reader formats. E-reader owners are hurting for good stuff.
This is awesome!
You’re gonna rock this.
-C
Sad to hear this man. I really enjoy the podcasted books.
Never mind – something will present itself I’m sure.
N
Better to reach for the stars and miss than to aim for the pile of manure and hit. Godspeed to further success in whatever field you apply to.
Thank you
Your fan
mike
A little more than 12 hours to let things come into focus: The numbing hollowing sharpness of this post has subsided. This isn’t a moment to regret, an experience that can’t be learned from, an opportunity to take what is broken and forge a better sword.
Hutch, you have been as big of an optimist as I’ve ever known in the podcasting arena. You shouldn’t mark this as a failure by yourself or the system. Yes, the system is flawed, but what matters here is that you have tried your best; know one can deny this inescapable fact. You inspired many to write again, encouraged tentative wordsmiths to jump in the deep end, and poured more of your very being into this dream.
Personally, I see this as a moment for you to look at that ever growing wall. It doesn’t budge. It silently mocks you. Don’t try to read what it’s thinking because that expression is as empty as all the would have(s), should have(s), could have(s), and maybe ifs. Randy Pausch said in his infamous Last Lecture: Really Achieving your Childhood Dreams that, “The brick walls are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something. Because the brick walls are there to stop the people who don’t want it badly enough.”
We know how badly you want it; the countless hours burning the midnight lamp are reason enough for those of us who follow to do likewise. There are several other quotes from that lecture which would fit well in this space, but the one that comes to mind rings truest, “We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand.” If a geeky computer science professor dying of pancreatic cancer can make it into a Star Trek film, the possibilities for you Hutch, are limitless. You’ve showed us how to be more human and as Picard says to Data, “Sleep Data . . . sleep.” (Sure, I’m taking the quote out of context here but go with it.) You need to get that creative spark again the best way you know how. Invisible hands will carry you if we have to, but you *will* cross that finish line. Eventually, we want you to “just keep swimming,” but for now, rest. Focus on yourself, your family, your foundation, and dream bigger. Don’t wake up and take flight when others want you to but when you have an itch you just can’t scratch. “The beast will have it’s day.” And I look forward to when J.C. Hutchins lets the beast run free again. We will share the bliss and do all we can. (Knew I’d work a quote from The Wolfman in here somehow.)
Peace and long life,
Hutch, I know arriving at this decision must have been beyond hard. But your reasoning is flawless, so whatever you do going forward, don’t have second thoughts. For the help you’ve given me personally and the great enjoyment I’ve had reading your work, I only have one woefully inadequate word:
Thanks
My dear friend,
I have to say, that on reading this, I don’t feel sad. I know that I won’t be getting free fiction from you anymore, but if I am to be selfish and honest, I have to admit that what I want the most out of J.C. Hutchins is fiction.
I want more of your brilliant stories. I want you to be able to have the time and energy and money to devote to writing more of your fiction. I am ready, willing and able to spend money on that fiction. When you are published again (and I know you will be, I know that with my whole heart) please tell me, because I will buy whatever magazine, anthology, literary journal, novel or any paying market that is brilliant enough to buy your work.
As an artist, I understand that when you work a full time job you don’t have as much time or energy to put into the creation of art. Even if we were to receive free content from you again, it would mean that you have to have a day-job to support doing this, and, quite frankly, I want your stories more than I want things for free.
I want you to be able to support yourself on writing fiction, I want you to be able to have the time and the energy to write write write – because your stories are worth reading.
Hutch
I too am extremely saddened not only at the loss of your fiction but also that you have had to come to this realization. I refuse to believe you are going away, just simply taking a much needed and deserved sabbatical.
Your time, money, and thoughts have been well worth it in this fan’s opinion. Kilroy will still live on in our thoughts, on our bookshelves, in our ears and on our t-shirts.
I am most thankful for you inviting us into this wonderful world you created and know that we will all be waiting to see what the next Hutchins’ project is. Whether for fee or for free, I can’t wait to read/listen to the next story.
Thanks for all you have done for us.
Thank you.
Thank you for the respect that you show us by telling us the truth, hard though it may be.
Thank you for the hours, and hours of entertainment that you have provided.
Thank you for sharing the ride with us.
and, thank you for sharing your enthusiasm, and passion about writing in a way that encourages, others to try their best at something about which they feel passionate!
Keep up the good work, and keep writing!
Bob
My heart hurts to hear this news, J.C. You tell stories like no one else and have rocked my world with 7th Son.
I’ve said it a bunch of times, the community you’ve created around your work is astounding and impressive. You will rock the entire world one day. I’ll be right there to see it when it happens.
Anytime you need anything, JC, anytime. /hug
I wish to thank you for your tireless creative efforts, your astounding writing and your generosity to the community. The system and the economy may have failed you, but you personally hit a home run. You are astounding and I wish I could pay your way myself.
Until then, I can present you some options / ideas of ways that you can capitalize on your many successes to achieve the end result you deserve.
1) Kickstarter is an excellent tool for smaller publishing. You get fans to pledge money up front, and you can use that money for publishing costs. This way you don’t need to be out a cent on the print run, and you can still produce the books for sale and earn some profit. You should have a baseline on sales for your previous books and thus you know a target print run size.
2) Have you tried using your narration skills for income? Perhaps hooking up with the folks at Audible could be useful, as you _clearly_ have significant skills on that front and it would allow you to at least earn some income on telling stories.
3) Kindle versions perhaps, in a portable written format so that others can buy your book for almost zero initial cost on your end?
Best of luck and if you need anything, please let me know.
http://www.kickstarter.com/help/faq?ref=email#AllFund
Sorry to hear it’s come to this, but you make a very good case for why you have to move in this direction. Everyone who’s said you don’t owe anyone anything is absolutely right. Thanks for sharing all that you have, and best of luck with what comes next.
JC,
There’s a lot of conflicting emotions here, but I’m sure they’re nothing compared with what you’ve been going through for the last few days as you grappled with what to do, and how to tell your fans.
First, of course, I’m disappointed. I thought 7th Son would be gangbusters. I thought it would blow up. The fact that it underperformed, after everything that I know you did to promote it, and after the support you had throughout the rest of the community, frankly makes me a little sad. I’m not disappointed that I’m not going to get free stuff from you any more… well, okay, maybe a little disappointed. But we understand the reasons why that’s going on. So, there’s that. (there’s a tiny voice inside saying but…but.. the world NEEDS the 33!)
Next, I’m grateful. You’ve never been anything but kind to me, and I’ve appreciated the time that I got to spend with you, both in listening to your podcasting, and on the few occasions we’ve talked one-on-one, either in person or over chat. You’ve given me the opportunity to push my own stuff occasionally, and I am grateful for that. You’ve given me specific advice on writing and you’ve been an example to me, and to many in the ‘sphere.
I’m also hopeful. The whole “give it away and hope people buy it later” model has always seemed a little “wish and a prayer” for me. I appreciate that your stated intent is to write and get paid for it. You’ve consistently shown depths of creativity in the promotional arena that are frankly amazing. If anyone is going to find a way to make this work, it’s going to be you, because frankly, you’re one of the most creative, daring, and persistent people I’ve had the good fortune to run into. That entire “all they can say is no” meme you were running last year with the video blurbs for Personal Effects: Dark Art was inspiring.
Now, having said that, talking with my wife about your decision last night, she said something that struck home. “Every writer is different, and every writer will have a different path to success.” What works for you might not work for me, we may have different goals, different pictures of what success looks like. Timing, audience, genre, available time/energy – all of that is unique in each person’s situation. It almost sounds like you’re going to wander the Earth, Kwai Chang Caine style, for a little while. I think that’s a good thing. Because when you get back, you’re going to be leaner, meaner, more driven, hungrier… frankly, it’s probably going to be a little scary, considering the lean, mean, driven, hungry guy you are now. So, I suppose the thing that I, and hopefully most of your audience is left with is… anticipation. Because it’s going to be a wonder to behold.
Know that you’re an example and an inspiration to a lot of people, including me.
I love you and I’m proud of you. I think you’ve made the right decisions for now. Can’t wait to see you tomorrow!
As a former podcaster, I understand 200% your decision, and appreciate the commitment and excellence you have brought to game.
The best thing about my podcasting experience continues to be the friendships that I made, and I look forward to keeping in touch with you well in to the future.
Thank you for all of your work.
So sorry to hear this, JC. You are THE MAN! I will continue to believe there will be a happy twist in this tale down the road. Okay, in order for it to be a JC twist, there may be some mayhem, but it will all work together. Keep warm.
The material you make is worth paying for, and you deserve to have it carry you. Thanks for being heroic in a world of increasingly shallow trends.
Thank you for all the entertainment you have provided me over the years!
Thank you, J.C.
I won’t try to put into words what others have said better. You rock. You need to do what is right for *you*.
I look forward to the next time I can purchase new J.C. Hutchins content (including the remaining 7th Son books). I do hope you find a way that you can do audio versions also (for profit is of course fine) since I really appreciate your reading style/performances. If you can’t, though, I’ll definitely find a way to find time to read anything I can get my hands on and it will be wonderful regardless.
As ever your fan,
Stephen
Sorry to hear that Hutch,
As a longtime podcaster (cannot talk to the writing aspect), I know how hard it is to make a living from it. You can have the amazing highs and lows like any creative endeavor. I am just glad you tried and shared with us 7th Son and your other stories. Good luck with your future writing endeavors but don’t become a total stranger, you fans and friends love to hear from you, be it twitter or the occasional blog post, etc.
The only thing I ask of you JC is that you don’t stop writing. You’re too good and my pocket book is open again for you when you find a way to publish The 33.
I do think with your media prowess and the amazing possibilities of the iPad, you could create some truly one of a kind experiences.
Thank you for the entertainment. Your effort through the years has been exceptional. You may just be the hardest working man in Podcasting.
Hutch,
It seems that all that is to be said has been said but I will reiterate some points. You have worked terribly hard and put many to shame with your promotion, and dedication to not only your fiction, but your fans as well.
I am sad to know that one of my favorite pod-casters will leave podcasting but I am glad to know instead of thinking you were on hiatus and then pod-faded. We like your work, and you too much.
You have nothing to be ashamed of for your writing may be art, but if you want to make living wages on it, it is a job as well. Many have already said that the dedicated will follow and purchase, and those who don’t support you, forget about ‘em.
You are an amazing individual, and for some of us, you have given us not only entertainment but hope. Those that know that even if you have given all, you will not give up. This is not giving up. This is only going back into your bunker and making new plans. That is half of writing, persistence, as you very well know.
You deserve rest, deserve to relax, fill your well of words again, and perhaps come back to us in print, for many will gladly pay for the tales that you spin.
Much luck to you in future and we will all be behind you when you get back on your feet again. Thank you for all your hard work and the countless hours of entertainment you provided us with.
Hutch, I’m sorry to hear you’ve decided to power down your mic, but I respect your decision and hope that your dreams of writing success come true.
Hutch -
I’m saddened to hear the news, but I completely understand. I’m literally sitting here crying, reading the news and people’s responses. I will be there when you publish your next work, ready to purchase copies and evangelize once more to the world. I can’t wait for it to happen! Thanks for all you do, and don’t stop the amazingly creative writing!