Making it Real

Now that the thesis is done, I’ve been thinking of ways to bring the ideas explored in it into the “real world.” I always said throughout the research and writing process that I would hate to work so hard to just leave the paper at school, never to be heard from again.

But figuring out how to best approach this transition into mainstream publishing is another matter. I’ve decided against the book idea…I don’t have enough time to make my research as comprehensive as it should be, and besides I question whether a 22-year old has any business writing a book explaining the state of some aspect of the world. Yes, I’ve done lots of research, but I have the feeling I have much to learn about the world and about porn before publishing my conclusions in such a definitive format.

The most attractive and realistic path, at this point, is publishing an article in a magazine. I’m thinking of starting from the angle of a young feminist attending a porn convention…I’d go into my reactions and experiences being in Vegas last winter, then branch into a larger analysis of the economics of the industry, obviously focusing on the evolving role of women. Does that sound snazzy? Would you want to read that?

I’ve never written a large feature piece for a magazine, so I’m a little hesitant as to where to begin. I suppose not doing anything is the worst strategy, so I’m going to just begin writing and see what happens. Wish me luck—and advice is very welcome!

Maybe I can use this blog as a way to explore ideas I wish to include in the article…as you can probably tell, I’m still trying to figure out how to go about this blogging business. I’ll hopefully hit my stride one of these days.

Comments

[anony]

The rational-choice model is the most winning part of your thesis, it would be a shame to have it become a peripheral part of your published writing.

And no research is definitive; you are contributing to an ever-evolving body of scholarship. Perhaps publishing an article would be a gateway to a book deal, but do not use your age anxiety or a lack of time as an excuse.

[Rebecca R]

Thanks for your input! The rational-choice section has interestingly drawn a lot of very different reactions. The economists don't think it's sophisticated enough, the feminists don't buy it, and others think it's pretty convincing. I guess that's just the nature of having a diverse audience read one's writing.

I've actually been thinking I'll write a book proposal and send it around, just to get word out there that I'm doing this. I figure it can't hurt to test the waters. Thanks for the kind words.