Girlfriend, if you’ve got the balls enough to write erotic short stories under your real name, I bow down to you. You’ve got a leg up on the rest of us.
I write under a pen name. In a lot of ways, I wish that I didn’t. However, my job requires anonymity. Now, if I ever break into the best seller’s list of erotica, or when I retire from my day job, look out. My career will be toast, and my name will be out there. But for now, I will write in a cloak of darkness.
Real Name Benefits
What are the benefits of writing while using your identity? You can promote your works to people that you know. It is easier to gain traction when people can put a face and voice to the name on a book. You don’t have to worry about someone finding out your secrets and using it against you. And, you are living your true self. You don’t have to make up some crazy-ass reason why you’re always too busy to go out on the weekend because you’re publishing sex books. There are only so many times that people will believe you’re washing your hair.
Real Name Downfalls
However, there are problems with writing while using your own name. Your work can be compromised. People can hold it against you, and your family could be embarrassed. You probably won’t get to become President. Well, that might not be the case anymore. Furthermore, you might not be as free with your writing if everyone knows that you are behind the ink.
Pen Name Benefits
For most people writing under a pen name is the safer choice. You can avoid friction at work and keep your family free from scandal. Not to mention, you may be open to exploring certain relationships or acts that you wouldn’t if your name was tied to the document.
Pen Name Downfalls
On the other hand, when you write under a pen name, you are unknown. You have no traction. It makes it hard to get a following or to get those much-needed book reviews for social approval. It is hard to be seen and heard on the internet.
In most cases, it is reported that it takes thirty months to be known on the internet. That’s a long time to get the toehold you need in order to make a profit. This length of time is not always necessary. With erotica, if you put out quality material, and a lot of it, you can become known much quicker.
Choosing a Pen Name
If you decide to go with a pen name, the choice should not be as simple as tossing a dart at a board. Or pinning that tail on a donkey. Some consideration should be given to the selection.
To learn more check out the below book on how to choose the best pen name for your erotic fiction!
Don’t forget – Grab the companion workbook for your step-by-step guide!
Buy Now!
Alexia Chase
https://alexiachaseromance.com
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