I’ve been involved in a lot of movements of the past. Because of that, I’ve seen a lot of shit and I know how things can come crashing down just as quickly as fires were lit and the people rose to fight the evil bastards of the day.
This is also why I am not quick to embrace labels or carry flags, even if I agree with the initial sentiment of a movement. I did, however, embrace the Iron Age when that fire was lit, because frankly, as an author who had just published his second novel right around the same time, I felt like it only helped galvanize the writing community I was already finding myself a part of. Plus, something about the term and the energy that came with it just felt right.
I’m not alone in that, as it is something that has exploded and taken on a life of its own since July or so.
Why?
I think it has a lot to do with how bad current mainstream entertainment has become and even though we agree with the massive YouTube channels and Twitter personas that harp on about the awfulness of movies, shows, comics, books, etc., most of us that can create are ready to do just that. Many of us are sick of the cringe watching, the usual suspects’ outrage, 437 videos about She-Hulk and Rings of Power, and feel like it is just time to move the fuck on and CREATE.
Sadly, the rage baiters aren’t actually interested in new, much better things. They stick to what works for them, even though it will crash and burn. But because of that, those of us making good shit, can’t rely on them to see it or promote it. Honestly, as much as they tell you to go out and make good shit, I don’t think they actually care.
I do, which I think is pretty apparent.
Part of building my own platform, here and on Twitter, has been to promote my own projects but over the last few months, I find myself more driven by using my growth to help get others out in front of a larger audience. What’s surprising, even to me who had faith in these creators, is just how much good shit there actually is.
The rage baiters aren’t going to take a risk and switch gears to promoting good shit. Where they’re at, there isn’t money in it. However, if you’re not building something to replace what you’re helping tear down, you’re only tearing down.
I’ve talked about this stuff before, I know. The reason I’m running through it again, however, is because I’ve noticed something as of late. Before I get to that, I also want to point out again that I’m not fond of gatekeeping. Not as far as a whole movement goes. With the Iron Age, there shouldn’t be a structure or a leader or any sort of social hierarchy… no rings to kiss. But individuals should be damn wary about who they let into their inner circle.
That being said, my big Wednesday promo pushes get anywhere from 5,000 to 25,000 impressions. In two instances, it surpassed 30,000. That is fucking huge and for those who take part in it, I hope they’ve seen more exposure. In many cases, I know that they have based off of what I’ve been told.
Others on the outside of my regular orbit have certainly taken notice. To the point where they want in, and I have no problem with that at face value. However, I am starting to get requests that don’t approach me in a friendly way, dictating to me how I need to promote them with my larger platform. This is not the attitude that will lead anyone to success.
Most of these people aren’t actually Iron Age creators, aren’t connected to other people I know in the space, and are just trying to come in and latch onto the success of the movement, as well as my Wednesday promo campaigns. Often times these projects espouse the same bullshit that the shitty, dying mainstream promotes.
To put it bluntly, I’m not fucking interested and you’re not going to piggyback off of the growth of my platform by demanding it. Let’s keep that fucking clear.
Think of what you’re asking and who you are asking it to. Learn about what I’m about and what it is I am trying to do. Be a part of the community I am trying to help build up. Also, work hard on promoting your own shit and don’t rely on everyone else to do it for you. Then when someone gives you a little extra boost, try to reciprocate in some way. Don’t be a fucking parasite.
I’m a firm believer in the old adage about a rising tide lifting all boats, but your ass doesn’t just get to sail into the harbor from the sea and start dictating how the harbor operates.
Some may have noticed, but I cut down on the number of accounts and projects I promoted this past week. It was time to clean house a little bit. While I do want to expand and find more worthwhile projects out there, I have to be more careful of who I’m letting in.
If you help promote other projects in the space (not just mine, whatever you enjoy), and you aren’t an asshole, you have nothing to worry about. Also, if you aren’t specifically carrying the Iron Age banner but you make good, entertaining stories, devoid of current year bullshit, I’ll probably help you out.
The thing is, I’m pretty accepting, but if you come into my house, start demanding what I need to cook for you and throw your muddy boots on my furniture, guess who’s getting shown the door?
Lastly, don’t rely on me to promote you. Rely on yourself. Build your own thing organically. I did. Although, since I also know how difficult it is to get your art seen, especially in the beginning, I want to try and give a little more exposure to those who just need a few more eyes on their work.
I appreciate your efforts and I think you have the right attitude. Keep fighting the good fight!
This is good stuff and gets me going on a day that I'm sick as a dog. I feel like things will move in the culture soon, and I want to be there. So close to getting my book ready for pub... and having worked myself into Twitter for a few months I feel that it's natural to promote my mutuals as I promote myself. Sorry you have moochers coming in making demands. Can't help but feeling that some are just awkward marketers, but some are lazy and it will show in their writing. Good luck!