Sci Friday # 92: Visual Inspiration

Images that inspired me

We hit the ice cream shop at the Japanese fish market last week. 😋

And, as I’ve mentioned before, I enjoy markets. Not really to buy but to people watch and study marketing, both necessary skills for a writer.

Let’s see what else we have in markets this week.

Outside the Big Buddha temple in Kamakura, Japan, there is a shop specializing in cat art and other things.

What?

This image is their front window with some Japanese postcards for sale. I love the Japanese method of presentation. They make everything a production to generate good vibes from your purchase and use of the item.

I once bought a pair of chopsticks for my own use, and before I could stop her, the saleslady had wrapped them up like a gift. She was that fast. And when I got home, I almost didn’t want to unwrap it.

Why?

I want people to enjoy my stories, so I’m thinking constantly of ways to get the stories in front of people who would enjoy them. Without spamming everyone else in sight. Unlike so many writers do. 🫤

It’s tricky being a writer because you have to have the right balance of confidence without being pushy.

“Buy my book! It’s the best ever!” 😃

vs.

“You don’t have to look at my book if you don’t want to. As a matter of fact, give me that back. I can’t deal with rejection.” 🫣

Personal opinion: You have to look at selling stories like selling cat postcards or green tea flavored soft serve ice cream. You’re either going to make someone’s day, leaving them wanting more, or you’re going to get a reaction that might crush you if you’re not resilient enough. It might leave you too thick-skinned to reach readers as you pull back emotionally.

No Writers questions.

Readers questions: Have you ever had to sell something by hustling to get people’s attention as they strolled by, as at an outdoor market? How did the experience leave you? Or did you want to leave before you even started?

Hope all y’all had a great Christmas and enjoy Boxing Day and the weekend. 👋