Why Would an Author Delete Their Own Story from Wattpad

Why Would an Author Delete Their Own Story from Wattpad?

Introduction

Wattpad has become a haven for authors and readers alike, providing a platform to share, discover, and connect through stories. However, sometimes authors face situations that necessitate unforeseen decisions, such as deleting their own stories from the site. This article delves into the various reasons behind such actions, offering insight and understanding for both authors and readers.

Common Reasons for Deletion

There are numerous reasons why an author might choose to delete a story from Wattpad. Here are some of the most common reasons:

Publishing or Self-Publishing

Many authors find success through Wattpad, but they ultimately want to take their stories to the wider, more lucrative markets of traditional publishing or self-publishing. Watson explains, ‘Publishing a book online through Wattpad allows it to reach a vast, engaged audience, but when the author finds a willing traditional publisher, they often opt to publish the book in print or e-book formats that can be sold at a premium. At this point, their story may have become too accessible on a free platform, making further free distribution seem like a poor use of resources’.

Personal Growth and Embarrassment

As authors mature, they often look back on their earlier works with a critical eye and may feel embarrassed by the content. Watson adds, ‘They feel like they’ve grown as writers and it’s clear that their earlier works reflect that initial learning curve. Deleting this content is a way to reclaim their professional identity as they move forward’.

Content and Theme Conflicts

Sometimes, the themes or content of an author’s work can evolve over time, and they may feel uncomfortable with these earlier writings. The author may change their outlook on certain issues or their personal circumstances may have shifted, leading them to remove stories that no longer align with their current view of the world. ‘For example, an author who previously wrote about taboos may now feel that their writing doesn’t reflect their mature perspective, or they might want to distance themselves from controversial themes that are no longer relevant to them,’ explains Watson.

Personal Circumstances

The deletion of a Wattpad story can also be influenced by personal circumstances or the reaction of others. An author may face pressure from family, friends, or even acquaintances about the content of their work. Watson notes, ‘In some cases, an author’s writing hobby may draw the disapproval of loved ones, especially if the content is considered inappropriate or offensive. Deletion can be a way to protect one’s personal and professional reputation, while in other cases, an individual may simply need to reregister their online presence as their situation changes’.

Health or Ethical Concerns

For some authors, particularly those in the erotica genre, the process of writing and sharing their work can be a deeply personal and ethical journey. When health constraints or the need to minimize family responsibilities arise, an author may decide to shut down their account and remove their stories to prevent additional stress or potential legal complications. ‘Being older or ill and deleting a Wattpad account can help simplify life for loved ones. Similarly, in the event of an author's passing, their family may choose to delete their stories to avoid further challenges and to clean up their digital footprint,’ Watson suggests.

target"_blank" rel"noopener">ERICOTA GENRE SPECIFIC

The deletion of erotica stories is particularly common, but it can happen due to various reasons regardless of genre. The author may write a story that, while not explicitly erotic, touches on sensitive themes such as homosexuality in a conservative area. Disclosure of the author's identity could lead to discrimination or backlash against both the author and the writers in general. ‘This is why many erotica authors have no choice but to protect themselves and their creations from potential legal and personal repercussions,’ Watson adds.

Conclusion

Deleting a story from Wattpad is a complex decision that stems from a variety of personal and professional reasons. From the need to publish traditional books to the need for personal and ethical growth, authors often find it necessary to remove their Wattpad content. Whatever the reason, the act of deletion is a powerful statement about the author's journey and their commitment to personal growth and integrity.