What do you guys think of this & the whole Webnovel Contract thing?
Well, duh, it’s a business. Just like everything else, actually. Even if you approach it the traditional way—by that, I mean sending your novel to the publishing house—it would still be all about popularpity and making money, anyway.
It’s not like the authors don’t care about the art and their craft. No, I believe most of them do, but then again, it all comes down to making money because why not? Who doesn’t love money anyway?
From what you said, though: some hidden gems just rot to nothing. Well, I quite agree, actually. There are a lot of hidden gems out there, a high quality gems—ones with good plots, godly characters development, super awesome world building, and good pacing.
But then again, those gems don’t rot for nothing for nothing (sounds kinda weird, I know). The reason why I think those gems aren’t popular is quite simple, really—they lack the appeal. Yes, it’s as simple as that.
If you look at the popular novels—which you assume care more about quantity more than quality, which is kinda true—they are all very appealing and eye-catching, don’t you think? The cover, the title, the synopsis, the premise.
And almost all of them are fun as hell. It’s addictive. I mean, isn’t the main purpose of reading web novels to have fun and enjoy? Or maybe to escape from the real world?
Those popular stories deliver all that. It’s like drug. Highly addictive—the more you have it, the more bliss you’d feel.
Ever seen comments like these? — “Give me more!” “Moar!” “Can’t wait for the next chapter!” “Can’t wait for more!” “Oh please don’t drop. Keep feeding me!” “Daddy, that feels good~”
Ahem… forget the last one…
Anyway, see what I mean? It’s a drug, in a healthier way if you don’t ignore your usual routine.
Readers just don’t really want the story to end. They want to keep reading. They want to keep feeling the dopamine rush—other than in the story itself, you’ll also get some once you finish a chapter.
So, in a business point of view, what seems to be the most logical thing to do? Focus on quantity, obviously. More chapter = more doses for the addicts = more money for the author = a shit ton of money for the company.
Oh, right. You’re talking about Webnovel, right? Well, fuck that shit! If you’re not sure your story will be popular enough, don’t do it. Or if you want to, study the contract carefully.
Well, that’s it, my opinion.