The attitude of, 'I will never self-publish,' coming from any

Host: The room is quiet, the soft light of the lamp casting a warm glow over the space. Outside, the evening air is still, and inside, the conversation feels like it’s about to dive into something deeper. Jack and Jeeny sit across from each other, both thoughtful, reflecting on the words that have just been shared.

Jack: “Jennifer Armintrout said, ‘The attitude of, ‘I will never self-publish,’ coming from any author, indicates that they have never been in a position where it is their only option.’” He repeats the words slowly, almost thoughtfully. “It’s an interesting perspective, right? So much of the conversation about publishing, especially in the traditional sense, seems to carry this stigma around self-publishing. But Armintrout’s point is that it’s not about preference; it’s about necessity.” He leans back, a hint of curiosity in his voice. “What do you think about that? Is self-publishing really something that gets dismissed too easily?”

Jeeny: “I think it does, especially in the traditional publishing world. There’s this idea that if you don’t have an agent, if you’re not going through a traditional publisher, then you’re not ‘really’ an author or you’re somehow ‘less than’ the established names.” Her voice is steady, thoughtful. “But Armintrout’s comment makes an important point. Self-publishing is often seen as a backup or a last resort, but for many authors, it’s not about being forced into it — it’s about taking control of their own work. Sometimes, it’s the only way to get their stories out into the world.”

Jack: “Right. It’s easy to see self-publishing as a fallback, something authors do when they can’t make it through the traditional doors. But what if it’s not just about that? What if self-publishing is a way for authors to truly take ownership of their careers, to cut through the barriers and the gatekeepers?” His tone grows a bit more reflective. “Maybe the stigma around self-publishing comes from people who have never faced the limitations or rejections that come with the traditional route. They don’t see the freedom and opportunity that comes with doing it yourself.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. And when you’re an author, you can’t always wait for permission or hope that someone else will give you the chance. You have to act when the opportunity is right in front of you, and sometimes that means taking the reins yourself. Self-publishing can be empowering. It gives authors a chance to build their own audience, control the process, and keep their vision intact.” She pauses for a moment, her voice steady with conviction. “The stigma against self-publishing is really a reflection of how we view creativity and success. It’s about conforming to the traditional expectations instead of valuing alternative paths. But the world is changing, and authors have more ways to share their stories than ever before.”

Jack: “That’s what’s so interesting about it, right? The idea that if it’s your only option, then it’s not just a second choice. It’s a valid path to get your work out there, and in many cases, it can be just as rewarding, if not more so, than going through the traditional route.” His voice softens, almost in recognition of a truth he hadn’t fully considered before. “The traditional publishing world has so many gatekeepers, so many rules about what makes a book ‘worthy.’ Self-publishing allows authors to bypass that and really connect with readers directly.”

Jeeny: “And in doing that, they build relationships with their audience that are more personal, more genuine. They don’t have to fit into a mold, they don’t have to write what’s popular — they get to tell their own stories, their own way. There’s something liberating about that.” She smiles, the enthusiasm in her voice clear. “That’s why I think self-publishing is often dismissed by people who don’t fully understand the process or haven’t had to face the obstacles that come with it. They don’t realize how much control it gives an author, or how rewarding it can be to directly reach the people who want to read your work.”

Jack: “It’s almost like the stigma comes from not understanding how much work goes into it. How much responsibility the author takes on themselves when they self-publish.” His tone is softer now, more contemplative. “You have to be so hands-on, right? You’re not just writing the book, but also handling marketing, distribution, the business side of things. It’s a huge commitment.”

Jeeny: “It’s a lot of work, for sure. But I think that’s what makes it so rewarding. You’re building your own platform, your own brand, on your own terms. It’s not about waiting for someone else to validate your work, but about having the freedom to pursue your vision. Self-publishing doesn’t diminish the value of your book; it actually elevates your role as an author.” She pauses, her voice full of respect for the process. “It’s a chance to redefine what success looks like, and in many ways, that’s empowering for authors.”

Host: The room feels quieter now, the depth of their conversation settling in. Jack and Jeeny have uncovered a truth about self-publishing: that it isn’t just a fallback for authors who can’t break into the traditional publishing world. It’s a valid path, one that offers freedom, control, and the ability to reach readers directly. The stigma around it fades when you consider the power it gives authors to share their work on their own terms, without waiting for approval.

Jack: “I think I’ve had a pretty narrow view of self-publishing. I always thought of it as a second option, but now I see it as something that can actually offer more freedom — not less.” He smiles, the realization settling in. “Maybe it’s time to change how we think about it. Authors are finding their own ways to succeed, and that’s something worth respecting.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. It’s about owning your creative journey. Self-publishing gives authors the space to do that.” She smiles back, a quiet affirmation in her eyes. “And that’s something that should be celebrated, not dismissed.”

Host: The room feels lighter now, the understanding between them growing stronger. Jack and Jeeny have found a deeper respect for the process of self-publishing, realizing that it’s not just about necessity, but about empowerment. In a world that’s constantly shifting, self-publishing gives authors the power to chart their own course, to break free from traditional limitations, and to share their stories on their own terms.