I see things all of the time that are worthy of being published, but getting NY editors to look at them is almost impossible. I am so glad for e-publishing. Finally, an avenue to get some really good books out there, being read. It can be very discouraging to have a book that wins contests, receives rave reviews, etc, but will never get beyond a slush pile. Just the fact that others can read my work.
Writers are performers.
If we don t have an audience, then we are not happy. I love hearing about my work from readers and reviewers. It s rather like applause at the end of a great performance. I can t draw anything though. I would definitely be a starving artist.