Back in the day, most great writers went to work at a newspaper, magazine or ad agencies if they didn’t write books. This is still pretty much the case but today they have a new outlet for their craft the “blog.” 

Blogs can be an entrée to jobs at print properties and ad agencies but they can also be an exit.  The latter route – the exit – is growing and will continue to grow.  Take A.O. Scott, the film reviewer for the New York Times. Mr. Scott is a wonderful writer and movie critic.  Many believe his words and spend their hard-earned based upon his reviews.  But he is one lone voice in the ink and digits that is The New York Times.  A.O. Scott’s content is of value…he is an important brand.  Were he to focus his craft on his own blog he could make some serious (cash). Today, Mr. Scott can choose to become a personal publishing brand and do things he couldn’t think of doing while at the NYT. (Not saying he will, it’s just an example.) 

Today, a percent of great writers with mass appeal are getting out of the journalism business and get into the blogging business.  In the blogosphere there will be lots of dreck… but there will also be a great deal of commercial successes. Blogging is a powerful, powerful medium (my blog aside, hee hee.)  Peace!