Don’t Build Your House on Rented Land: Why Writers Should Avoid Platform Dependency and How They Can Do So
Over the past several years, platforms such as Substack have become increasingly attractive to writers seeking to establish themselves as an independent voice. The appeal is obvious. They are easy to use and can turn a writer into a publisher overnight. No web developer is required. Payment systems are integrated, and distribution is built in. Substack markets itself as a refuge for writers who prefer autonomy to corporate hierarchy. There are good reasons to use Substack and similar businesses, but there are also risks. These platforms are not inherently malign, but they are fragile. This article by Jerry Lawson will focus on Substack, the currently trendy platform, but the key ideas apply to many other platforms.