Publishing again

Well, I think I warned you...the few people who read this blog...that I'd be slow with the posts. When I did a column for Komikwerks, it seemed more of a job and I felt obligated to make sure I posted an article each week. Even though this blog is essentially the same thing, I just find myself too lazy to post often. But it goes with the blogging territory...there's the consistent bloggers and then the more common sporadic bloggers. And some of those average 1-3 blogs a month. It just comes down to deciding if I have anything important to say (not just to you readers...but myself as well). And do I want to share what I have to say. I find it incredible just how many people put forth all of their personal beliefs in their blogs. I've always tried to keep it focused purely on the "business" side of things. But that may change. I've been giving a lot of thought to some new directions in my life and no, not any kind of mid-life crisis or anything. There are some things that tie in closer with my beliefs and my professional career both in comics and teaching and I'm looking to bring them together. Not sure how this impacts anything regarding Transfuzion or my writing and that's one of the things I have to explore. But first, I have to take care of getting Transfuzion launched, completing this semester, and tackling the dreaded deadline projects. Transfuzion now has 4 releases with 2 more coming in the next week or so. Lots of work for the next few (much more work than I had anticipate) and it leads me to remembering why I got out of publishing in the first place. There is an enormous amount of time sucked away just by answering emails and dealing with the day to day stuff that pops up with creators, distributors, press, retailers, etc. And Transfuzion is taking it low key at this point. I don't see much sense making any kind of aggressive push when we only have a few titles out. I mentioned last time that the Diamond orders were light and it was fully expected. However, we have been getting some reorders already which was a surprise and the numbers on some of the future books have shot up dramatically. So, a pleasant surprise. Another part of publishing I remember now is just how many people want to get into this industry. It's like if you put the word publishing anywhere near your company name, just expect to get swamped. And another part I remember is just how many people who really "want" to get in the business, will never make it. Not just because of talent but because they can't deliver what they're supposed to. I can't tell you how many people can talk a good game but don't come through. Now, I know why they're not successful. Don't want to end this on a negative note. I made my rare visit to a comic shop last week. I have to say, I'm surprised at how the industry is going. There is an incredible amount of very unique material out there that is maybe not breaking new ground but certainly covering it well. Of course, there's the usual Marvel and DC stuff that I just can't even look at anymore. When I see discussions, reviews, etc. about this stuff (Secret Wars again? Are you kidding me?)...I realized I've become one of those people who just "doesn't get" comics. I used to but man, to me most of that stuff is just plain drek. No offense to anyone working on those books but I imagine you get a good paycheck. Uh, guess it went a bit negative, didn't it. Well, it doesn' t matter on that stuff. If you Canadian, a recently aired show called Zombiemania takes a look at the zombie culture and exploitation. Very well done and they show a couple of Deadworld covers in there. Convention alert. I...and Transfuzion...will be at Motor City Con in May and Wizard World Chicago in...whenever it is.