Is the professional writer an endangered species?

Philip Pullman, the author of His Dark Materials trilogy, believed that professional writers are set to become an endangered species. He was pointing to a recent survey where almost twelve percent of British writers live solely on writing.

"They have enormous financial and political power, but no creative power whatsoever. Whether we're poets, historians, writers of cookery books, novelists, travel writers, that comes from us alone. We originate the material they exploit," he said.

The Society of Authors saw a record number of authors applying for emergency financial assistance last year. This strengthened Pullman's belief that people have been educated into the belief that books don't cost money. If you'll earn your English degree soon, then this can be a blow to your literary aspiration. You'll be disheartened, but let's look at the situation thoughtfully.

Social media is a good tool to make yourself known to the world, but try to come up with a good approach. Moreover, study your options. There's always a way if you want to make it happen. It will be a cutthroat competition, as not all writers have equal opportunities. This kind of situation happens in other professions, though. Here are five suggestions:

Get to know everyone. The only way to get your big break is to create a large network of people in the publishing industry. Don't forget the members of faculty in the English Department, as their contacts may help you along the way.

Keep in touch with your coursemates. Everyone will be busy, sooner or later. But this is not an excuse for not getting in touch with your coursemates. (They might take it against you in case you don't have recollections of the parties you attended.) Never take them for granted, as some might become more successful than you. And you may need their help.

Be sensible, be flexible. Unless you have well-to-do parents, then think of your career options. Authorship is the ultimate goal, but remember the monthly rent. Don't forget your other expenses. An academic career is a good choice, but any related field is worth looking at. It's up to you to find which one.

Seek other writers. A support system can help you find ways to make a living on something you're truly passionate about. And never look at other writers as your competitors. You have the same predicament, more or less. There are times it will be better not to take the situation seriously, so lighten up.

A blog will do, but know your worth. What better way to promote yourself than having your own personal blog. It will be free of charge, and you don't have to worry about the others. (You want to have it your way.) But keep in mind that you want to earn for your writings.