#278 Joshua Lisec - Conversation With a Ghostwriter
Oct 6, 2023
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Joshua Lisec, a prolific ghostwriter with over 80 books, joins the show to discuss the prevalence of ghostwriters in the literary world and the debate over hiring them. They explore the ethics and transparency of ghostwriting, including instances where ghostwriters hire other ghostwriters. They also touch on the controversy surrounding Millie Bobby Brown's ghostwriter for her debut novel.
Ghostwriting is prevalent in the author industry, with a majority of best-selling books being ghostwritten.
Authors utilize ghostwriters primarily to save time and ensure their ideas are professionally written and marketable.
Deep dives
Ghostwriting and its Role in the Author Industry
Ghostwriting plays a significant role in the author industry, with estimates suggesting that between 85% and 93% of best-selling books are ghostwritten. Both fiction and nonfiction books use ghostwriters, with fiction books often having a small group of ghostwriters working on various chapters. Nonfiction books typically involve one ghostwriter collaborating with the author or publishing house editor. While ghostwriting is well-known within the industry, it may come as a surprise to the general public. The use of ghostwriters can be a subject of controversy, particularly when it comes to fiction writing, where the creative and artistic aspects are expected to come from the author themselves. Transparency and authenticity are key considerations when it comes to ghostwriting, as authors who are open about their collaboration tend to receive a more positive reception from readers.
The Reasons Behind the Use of Ghostwriters
The primary reason authors utilize ghostwriters is not due to a lack of talent, but rather a lack of time. Ghostwriters provide a valuable service by helping authors who want to write a book but do not have the time or expertise to do so. Working with a ghostwriter allows authors to delegate the task of structuring and refining their ideas, stories, and experiences into a book. This collaboration enables authors to focus on their core competencies while ensuring their book is professionally written and maximally word-of-mouth marketable. Ghostwriters provide the necessary expertise to transform an author's concepts into a cohesive and persuasive book, saving the author time and effort.
The Controversy Surrounding Ghostwriting in the Creative World
Ghostwriting tends to be less controversial in the literary world compared to other artistic mediums such as music. While it is widely known that many famous authors employ ghostwriters, the general public may not be aware of this practice. However, controversy can arise when prominent figures, such as actors or public figures, release a book and credit themselves as the sole authors, while the contribution of a ghostwriter is undisclosed. This lack of transparency can lead to audience disappointment and a feeling of deception. The level of acceptance and controversy also varies depending on the industry, with business and entrepreneurial spheres more accepting of ghostwriting as a common practice.
The Importance of Transparency and Authenticity
Transparency and authenticity are crucial in the context of ghostwriting. Authors who openly acknowledge their collaboration with ghostwriters often receive a more positive reception from readers. Clear and honest communication about the role of a ghostwriter in the creation of a book can build trust and maintain the author's reputation. On the other hand, failure to disclose ghostwriting can lead to a sense of betrayal and damage to an author's credibility. Ghostwriters should be credited appropriately, either as co-authors or through acknowledgments, ensuring a transparent and authentic representation of the book's creation.