How to define success: Lessons from a classic saga
Unlocking the secrets to success from a literary journey.
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Let’s dive into today’s topic:
How to define success: Lessons from a classic saga
Unlocking the secrets to success from a literary journey.
Why it matters
In today's music landscape, metrics like followers, streams, and gatekeeper approval often measure success.
However, these metrics neglect the true essence of success, such as the ability to dedicate oneself wholly to music, finding joy in the creative process, and entertaining an audience.
A short epilogue in a decades-old saga uncovers insights to redefine our perception of success.
How it works
‘Dune’ is a science-fiction saga spanning six novels, which has resurged in popularity with the release of a blockbuster film adaption.
Author Frank Herbert describes his relationship with success in an epilogue to the third novel, first released in 1976, eleven years after the first novel.
Herbert's narrative mirrors the path of music artists as they cultivate a dedicated fanbase:
Twelve publishers turned down Dune before it was accepted by Chilton Books, known for publishing auto repair manuals. Dune was published without advertisement or other promotional fanfare.
Yet, it was fervently embraced by science fiction enthusiasts who eagerly promoted the tale, igniting discussions and propelling Dune to become a beloved franchise.
Drawing from this epilogue, I have identified three pivotal takeaways for artists:
The first measure of success
“What does this success mean to you?” It surprises me. I didn’t expect failure either. (…) I was a writer and I was writing. The success meant I could spend more time writing.
True success for artists starts when they can dedicate themselves entirely to their craft, leaving behind side jobs and focusing solely on music while supporting themselves financially.
Success lies in creation
Looking back on it, I realize I did the right thing instinctively. You don’t write for success. That takes part of your attention away from the writing. If you’re really doing it, that’s all you’re doing: writing.
Artists should prioritise their creative output above all else. While the digital era demands diverse creative skills, it all begins with crafting exceptional music.
When successful, don’t take an audience for granted
There’s an unwritten compact between you and the reader. If someone enters a bookstore and sets down hard earned money (energy) for your book, you owe that person some entertainment and as much more as you can give. That was really my intention all along.
Even in an age of data abundance, artists must never forget that their revenue model is set up around entertaining real people who invest their time and resources into their work.
Yes, but..
Frank Herbert’s success predates the digital age. However, Dune became successful because it resonated with a niche audience seeking quality storytelling. That is a timeless lesson.
Take action now
Emerging artists should assess whether they've attained the first level of success: the ability to sustain themselves through music. If not, they must channel their efforts into creating exceptional music and refining their craft.
Further reading
Herbert, F. (1976). When I was writing Dune. In Children of Dune
Why artists shouldn’t skip steps (The Fanbase Builder)
How artists can regain control over their marketing efforts (The Fanbase Builder)