In the United States, the past decade has seen a massive increase in the number of books published each year, estimated to be around three to four million annually. This surge has led to the growth of a diverse marketplace for writer classes, retreats, and collectives, creating new job opportunities for individuals in various fields as well as for writers and artists. The number of book sales remains healthy, with over 750 million units sold in 2020 and around 767 million units sold in 2023. However, what has seen a dramatic increase is the number of books being published, with estimates ranging from three to four million each year.
The main driver of this growth in book publishing has been self-publishing, with an estimated 2.3 million self-published books in 2021. This shift has allowed writers to publish their work independently, eliminating the need to convince traditional publishing houses to take on their projects. Additionally, the growth in affluence and discretionary income in American society has fueled the increase in creative activities, with writing becoming a primary pursuit for many individuals. Theoretical perspectives dating back centuries have envisioned a society where individuals engage in creative pursuits as a result of economic abundance.
The marketplace for writer training has seen significant expansion over the years, with numerous businesses offering assistance to aspiring writers. The internet has played a key role in this evolution, allowing for nationwide and even worldwide reach for these businesses. The emergence of writer collectives, such as A Writing Room, has provided writers with opportunities for community, feedback, and mentorship. These collectives offer a range of services aimed at teaching the craft of writing, navigating the publishing industry, and building a following of readers.
A Writing Room, one of the fastest-growing writer collectives, was founded by novelist Anne Lamott and a team of entrepreneurs in 2023. The company offers on-demand courses, online discussions with authors and publishing professionals, and daily writing prompts focused on writing as a craft. The emphasis is on building a community of writers where members can give and receive feedback, fostering a supportive environment for writers to grow and develop their work. The growth of writer collectives reflects a broader trend in the marketplace for writer assistance, with a focus on community, cooperation, and adaptation to changing conditions.
As the marketplace for writer assistance continues to evolve, new opportunities are emerging in tech, administrative, and writing coach positions. Companies like A Writing Room are creating jobs for individuals from different backgrounds, including mainstream tech workers, administrative professionals, and writers and artists from America’s counterculture. These developments are reshaping the landscape of writer training and creating a more diverse and inclusive environment for aspiring writers. Ultimately, the growth of the marketplace for writer assistance reflects a broader shift towards supporting creativity and encouraging the craft of writing in a society that values intellectual pursuits.
