Thank you for such a detailed overview of your experience with Dark Horse. I have an idea for a short comic series that I have been going back and forth on for a long time now and I am considering sending it as a pitch to DH. I am a busy person with almost no money, already another self-published series that I am writing and drawing, and almost no presence on social media, so if it doesn't do well it could smack me hard financially as well as make me look like a dumbass. Seems like a massive undertaking and I keep worrying over whether or not I should just take the plunge and send them something. You've given me so much to think about.
First off, you're not a dumbass for trying new things or pushing yourself further. And from what I've seen, no one judges us nearly as hard as we judge ourselves. Hell, most people won't even notice you did anything because they're so focused on themselves. If anything, it's more likely they'd be inspired that you made the effort.
You're right, making comics is a huge undertaking. But if you love making them, and if you're hungry to continue making them and sharing them with a larger audience, you'll continue making them regardless of the sacrifice. If readers take anything from my posts, I hope they see that success comes in many forms. I spent lots of money and time, and while I'm not a millionaire yet, I enjoyed the process and think my books are pretty damn good. That alone was worth the time and money. Maybe it's time to analyze your goals and dreams and to (maybe) reconsider your definition of success.
Glad you enjoyed it, Jon. And I hope it's helped provide some insight into the publishing world. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for such a detailed overview of your experience with Dark Horse. I have an idea for a short comic series that I have been going back and forth on for a long time now and I am considering sending it as a pitch to DH. I am a busy person with almost no money, already another self-published series that I am writing and drawing, and almost no presence on social media, so if it doesn't do well it could smack me hard financially as well as make me look like a dumbass. Seems like a massive undertaking and I keep worrying over whether or not I should just take the plunge and send them something. You've given me so much to think about.
First off, you're not a dumbass for trying new things or pushing yourself further. And from what I've seen, no one judges us nearly as hard as we judge ourselves. Hell, most people won't even notice you did anything because they're so focused on themselves. If anything, it's more likely they'd be inspired that you made the effort.
You're right, making comics is a huge undertaking. But if you love making them, and if you're hungry to continue making them and sharing them with a larger audience, you'll continue making them regardless of the sacrifice. If readers take anything from my posts, I hope they see that success comes in many forms. I spent lots of money and time, and while I'm not a millionaire yet, I enjoyed the process and think my books are pretty damn good. That alone was worth the time and money. Maybe it's time to analyze your goals and dreams and to (maybe) reconsider your definition of success.
This was a fantastic and honest breakdown, from start to finish. Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it, Jon. And I hope it's helped provide some insight into the publishing world. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out.
A really sobering, clear eyed reflection on the experience, with all its ups and downs. Thanks for sharing this.
I hope it shines a light on a few things and helps you understand possible paths for your own journey.