In the summer of 2023, a writer celebrated a significant milestone in their career by attending Adele’s Las Vegas residency concert. This decision came after securing a substantial advance for two upcoming books. The writer reflects on the sudden shift from financial uncertainty to relative stability, pondering the responsibilities that come with being a commercially successful author. While enjoying the concert, they grappled with feelings of guilt over spending money on personal indulgences versus saving or investing it wisely. This experience marked a turning point, highlighting the balance between artistic integrity and financial responsibility.
For years, the writer had struggled to make ends meet through writing. After completing an MFA program and navigating the submission process for their first novel, they finally received a substantial sum for their work. The newfound wealth brought both excitement and anxiety. As they flew into Harry Reid International Airport, they questioned whether this success meant they could leave their day job and focus solely on writing. However, the transition from aspiring author to professional writer introduced new pressures, including sales targets and marketing strategies. These concerns weighed heavily during the concert at Caesars Palace, where the costs of fulfilling a long-held dream seemed daunting.
The writer reminisced about their earlier days, when earning enough from writing to cover a month's rent was a rare achievement. They wondered if Adele, who rose from humble beginnings in Brixton to stardom, felt similarly burdened by her success. The comparison led them to question whether their own writing now carried different responsibilities, especially since it had become part of a business model. Despite the initial thrill of receiving an advance, the writer realized that maintaining success would require more than just creative talent—it demanded fiscal prudence and strategic planning.
The writer's first novel had exceeded all expectations, garnering positive reviews and critical acclaim. In contrast, the second book, a comedic family drama set in a sushi restaurant, presented challenges. They worried about reader reception and whether their new genre choice would alienate fans of their debut science fiction thriller. This concern extended to the revision process, where decisions were influenced by potential impacts on ratings and sales. The writer acknowledged the uncomfortable reality that their creativity now had financial implications, yet they found solace in keeping a day job as a buffer against the uncertainties of the publishing world.
The concert ultimately provided an emotional release, with Adele's performance living up to the writer's high hopes. Songs like "Easy on Me" evoked powerful emotions, reminding the writer why they pursued writing in the first place. The final song, "Love is a Game," resonated deeply, symbolizing the cyclical nature of love and art. As Adele's show concluded, the writer reflected on the journey ahead, knowing that future advances would bring similar dilemmas. However, they recognized that paying for memorable experiences was a way to invest in personal growth, even if it sometimes felt extravagant. The concert served as a poignant reminder that success, while rewarding, comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities.