As writers, we’ve all been there – staring at a blank page, wondering if we’re doing it “right.” We’ve been taught to follow the rules, to conform to the norms of our craft. But what if I told you that breaking those rules is exactly what you need to do to set your work apart? What if I told you that sometimes, the best way to get noticed is to ignore the norms and forge your own path?
Embracing the Rebel Within
The truth is, writing is an art form, and art is all about experimentation and pushing boundaries. When we’re too focused on following the rules, we risk losing our unique voice, our perspective, and our passion. We risk becoming just another face in the crowd, another writer churning out formulaic work that doesn’t resonate with readers.
So, what are some of the rules you should be breaking? Well, for starters:
- Word count: Who says your poem needs to be a certain length? Who says your chapbook can’t be a slim volume of 10 poems or a hefty tome of 50?
- Genre: Why do you have to fit neatly into one category? Why can’t your work blend elements of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction?
- Format: Who says your chapbook has to be a traditional, stapled booklet? Why can’t it be a handmade, hand-stamped creation that’s a work of art in and of itself?
The possibilities are endless, and it’s when we give ourselves permission to explore, to experiment, and to push the boundaries that we create work that truly resonates with others. As the great poet Mary Oliver once said:
Instructions for living a life:
Pay attention.
Be astonished.
Tell about it.This is what I want to encourage you to do – to pay attention to your own unique voice, to be astonished by the beauty and complexity of the world, and to tell about it in your own, authentic way. Don’t worry about what others think; don’t worry about breaking the rules. Worry about creating something that speaks to you, something that speaks to others.
Practical Tips for Breaking the Rules
So, what does breaking the rules look like in practice? Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Experiment with different formats and styles. Try your hand at hand-stamped covers, or use a tool like Canva to create a unique, digital chapbook.
- Ignore the “rules” of traditional publishing. Consider self-publishing, or look into hybrid models that give you more control over the process.
- Don’t be afraid to take risks. Try writing in different styles, different genres, and different formats. You never know what you might create.
- Remember, your work is yours alone. Don’t worry about what others think; focus on creating something that speaks to you, and that speaks to others.
If you’re just starting out, chapbooks can be an amazing way to get your work out into the world. For more on why chapbooks are the perfect starting point, click here.
Embracing the Beauty of Imperfection
One of the most beautiful things about self-publishing is the freedom to create something that’s truly yours, imperfections and all. You don’t have to adhere to traditional publishing standards of perfection; you can create something that’s raw, real, and authentic.
For example, when it comes to printing, you can choose a high-quality paper that feels good in your hands. You can choose a binding method that’s unique and eye-catching. You can create a truly one-of-a-kind piece of art that reflects your work.
Want to learn more about chapbook printing on a budget? Click here.
In the end, breaking the rules is all about giving yourself permission to create something that’s truly yours. It’s about embracing the beauty of imperfection, and the uniqueness of your own voice. So, go ahead, break the rules, and see what amazing things you can create.
And remember, the key to chapbook success is all about creating something that resonates with readers. For more on the 5 essential elements of chapbook success>, click here.