Are Writers Justifying Their Unappreciation as a Merit of Talent?

Call me a cynic, but I've always had this nagging feeling that the common sentiment among writers—that some with incredible talent will be overlooked by the masses and appreciated only by a few—is a self-justification. The idea isn't inherently a cop-out, but the attitude behind it certainly is. It's entirely plausible that someone with extraordinary talent could go unnoticed by the general public and be revered only by a select few. But why would someone intentionally desire such a fate? Here's why such an attitude seems foolish.

Why Aspire to Unappreciation?

If someone embarks on a career path or creative endeavor with the explicit goal of being underappreciated, they must be fundamentally unserious about their work. This sort of forced pseudo-style serves as a justification for lack of success. Alternatively, it can be a coping mechanism for those who would rather not face the harsh reality of not taking their craft seriously and engaging in mere hobbyism.

Consider this example: I am a professional writer, and my livelihood hinges on my writing skills. I am talented, but I strive to improve constantly. My primary goal is for everyone in the world to read what I write and enjoy it. I fine-tune my skills and tailor my work to resonate with my audience because that is the essence of a successful writer. However, if I were to merely take pictures for my own enjoyment, employing unconventional methods that even professional photographers would ridicule, why not strive to reach a larger audience?

The Nature of Good Work

At the core, any work of merit will find its audience. The quality of the work transcends subjectivity. Good work will naturally attract a significant number of admirers. It's about doing the best you can and reaching as wide an audience as possible. Success in any field should ideally be preceded by a genuine effort and adherence to the correct methods. This applies whether you are writing a novel, taking photographs, or any other creative endeavor.

Challenging Elitism

It's worth noting that not all good work needs to be elitist. In fact, any work that is of high quality will find its audience, regardless of the approach. The counter-maxim to this elitist stance is essential in challenging the notion that only unique or unconventional methods can produce good work. Any work that stands the test of time and quality will be appreciated by a broad spectrum of people, provided it is genuine and well-executed.

In conclusion, the attitude of justifying unappreciation through talent is a red herring. True success and appreciation come from a genuine desire to reach and impact a wider audience, coupled with relentless effort and the pursuit of excellence.