From advances to leaves of absence from the day job, writers’ income is anything but straightforward
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Liz Nugent photographed with her books. Photo: Frank McGrath
There’s a scenario most aspiring writers are likely to have fantasised about. They submit a stellar idea to a literary agent, who in turn contacts one of the ‘big four’ publishing houses. Everyone loves it and, after a bidding war, one lucky publisher immediately offers the plucky debut writer a six-figure sum on the spot.
But it’s only ever a fantasy because it’s based on a common misconception: that writers, especially those writing their first book, can make a lot of money with ease.