Should writers be invisible?

There are factors to consider when answering this specific question, the definition of ‘invisible’ as a writer being just one. If by ‘invisible’ we mean that a writer’s physical appearance should be unknown and only their name should be recognisable, then I think this should be the case, at least I would prefer that scenario for myself. However, in this day and age I feel that a writer can’t afford to be invisible. I think when answering this question we also need to consider the aspirations of each given writer and their skill level. If a writer wishes to be financially successful then a certain amount of publicity is usually needed, but only those who are truly extraordinary writers can possibly be completely unrecognisable to the public and not have their careers effected by their media shyness.

If you wish to be a very wealthy writer, through merely the selling of your books, then it is likely that you will be thrust into the public’s view. In the case of J.K Rowling, her books were such a success that the media was almost unavoidable and her career only benefited by her making public appearances. However, most writers will not have this eventuality in their careers and therefore should consider whether there is a need to do such things to become a success. I believe that if you are skilful and confident enough, then your name should be sufficient to lure the public in.

So even though I would ideally answer this question with a ‘yes, writers should be invisible’, a writer who does no promotion at all is brave, stupid, or immensely talented (possible all three).