The Pen, the Page, and the Power

 

 

 

“We don’t want to write the laws; we want to publish the books.” Evan Swensen

That phrase may sound simple, but it carries weight for authors—and those of us who believe in the written word. It’s not about avoiding responsibility. It’s about choosing a different kind of influence. Instead of passing bills, we pass on truth. Instead of wielding power over people, we offer something deeper: words that stir the heart, challenge the mind, and awaken the soul.

It’s easy to forget, especially now, that books have always led the way before laws caught up.

Before the world changed, someone had to write Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Someone had to write 1984, Night, and Silent Spring. Someone had to risk putting thoughts on paper and trust that those words would matter. Not immediately, perhaps. Not even loudly. But permanently.

That’s the kind of work authors do.

And yet, too often, writers stop at the writing. They pour their heart into a manuscript, polish it, pray over it, and publish it—only to shrink back from what comes next: marketing.

Many view marketing as showmanship or, worse, salesmanship. But it’s neither. At its best, marketing is nothing more than telling the truth—clearly, consistently, and where people can hear it. If you believe your book has something valuable to say, it’s your responsibility to ensure it gets heard.

Letting a book sit silently is like lighting a lantern and hiding it under a basket.

When people ask what authors can do in a world filled with noise, division, and doubt, the answer isn’t complicated. Write the books. Write them with care, courage, and purpose. Then, stand behind them. Don’t wait for a trend to catch up. Don’t wait for permission. Speak boldly—not to provoke, but to serve. Write the stories that lift people out of their circumstances. Write the facts that correct the record. Write the ideas that plant seeds of change.

Then, publish the books, share them, talk about them, and put them in the hands of readers who need them.

Not because we want control but because we offer something else: perspective. Wisdom. Peace. Challenge. Hope.

As a publisher, I’ve seen what happens when writers understand this. When they stop believing their job ends with the last chapter. When they begin to see their voice as a tool—not for personal gain, but for good.

The world doesn’t need more laws right now. It needs more light. More stories that point us forward. More writers willing to do the hard, quiet work of thinking deeply and speaking plainly.

We don’t want to write the laws. We want to publish the books.

That’s enough. More than enough.

And if we do it well—if we write honestly, speak kindly, and share boldly—we might change the world anyway.

Want to Grow as a Writer? Join Author Masterminds

If you’re looking for a community of dedicated writers who understand the challenges of the craft, consider joining Author Masterminds. Here, authors support each other, share marketing strategies, and gain insights beyond just writing—helping you build a career, not just a book. You don’t have to navigate criticism alone. Author Masterminds is a group of like-minded writers who will challenge, encourage, and help you grow. Learn more about how to become a part of it here: https://bit.ly/4k6lvg1.

Author Masterminds—Where Purpose, Power,
Passion, and Partnership Produce Possibilities.

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