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What happens to your writing after you're dead?

by Scott Bird | June 21, 2007
Filed in Blogging , Writing

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SolicitorThis may seem like a morbid topic, but it’s definitely something to think about - especially if your writing helps to support a family.

I write articles for a number of sites; mostly covering the areas of health and fitness (there’s a brief list below). Whenever someone asks me what I do for a living, I give an answer along the lines of ‘writing articles for magazines’ or ‘writing articles for blogs’ depending upon the age and technical awareness of the individual. This is usually enough to give them a sense of how I spend my time.

When it comes to the details, however, there are a number of critical pieces of information that only I know (and the other site owners, of course). Which magazines do I write for? How often? How much do I get paid, and how? Do I choose the topics, or are they chosen for me? Are there particular guidelines I observe? Who are my contacts? And so on.

If you find yourself in a similar position, take the time to note down the answers to these questions. Treat the information as you would a will - store it in a safe place and tell a trusted contact or two about it. In the event of your untimely demise, it’ll prove invaluable to those who are left behind to pick up the pieces.

About the author

Scott Bird is a writer, photographer and fitness enthusiast currently living in beautiful Sydney, Australia. When he’s not hovering over a keyboard, you’ll usually find him in a second-hand book shop, a gym or simply enjoying the great outdoors.

A few of the sites he regularly writes for are :