How to Start a Literary Agency from Southeast Asia
A literary agent plays a pivotal role in representing authors and their works, acting as an intermediary between authors and publishing houses. They provide valuable guidance to authors, negotiate contracts on their behalf, and strategise to secure the best possible deals. A skilled agent possesses in-depth knowledge of the industry and uses their expertise to advocate for the author’s best interests. They also offer editorial feedback, helping authors refine their manuscripts to enhance their marketability - in Southeast Asia, its translation version. In today’s dynamic publishing landscape, a literary agent serves as an invaluable partner, steering authors towards success and navigating the complexities of the industry.
The Challenge of Literary Representation in Southeast Asia
The scarcity of literary agents from Southeast Asia can be attributed to several factors. First, the publishing industry in this region is still emerging and faces infrastructural challenges, making it difficult for literary agents to establish themselves. Additionally, there may be cultural and language barriers that make it challenging for Southeast Asian literary agents to reach a global audience. Furthermore, the traditional publishing model predominates in the region, and emerging digital and self-publishing trends may not have fully permeated the literary agent landscape. Lastly, economic disparities and access to education in certain parts of Southeast Asia could also impact the availability of literary agents. Despite these challenges, the literary landscape in Southeast Asia is rich with diverse stories, and efforts to overcome these obstacles can lead to more inclusive representation in the global literary market.
Being a literary agent can be an incredibly challenging role, requiring a combination of business acumen, marketing savvy, and a deep understanding of the publishing industry. With the demanding nature of the job, including the need to constantly seek out new talent, negotiate contracts, and manage client relationships, it’s no surprise that being a literary agent can be extremely difficult. However, despite the challenges, there are individuals who are passionate about literature and have a keen eye for talent. These people are driven by the opportunity to discover and develop exceptional writers, to bring fresh voices and stories to the forefront, and to play a vital role in shaping the literary landscape. Their love for books and the desire to help authors succeed motivates them to navigate the complexities of the industry, making the role of a literary agent not only difficult but also deeply rewarding for those who are drawn to it.
It’s clear that the motivation is never financial.
For me, this is the most effective way to '“cure” homesick for those who live abroad permanently. Many of us may seek in culinary and art performance. Some in writing and travel across the country their hearts ache for.
The Basic Skills of a Literary Agent
To be successful as a literary agent, one must possess a diverse set of skills. First and foremost, excellent communication skills are essential, as literary agents are constantly engaging with authors, editors, and publishers. A keen eye for talent and market trends is crucial for identifying promising manuscripts and navigating the competitive publishing industry. Negotiation skills are equally important, as agents work to secure favorable deals for their clients. Additionally, strong organisational abilities and attention to detail are necessary for managing contracts, deadlines, and client relationships. Lastly, a passion for literature and a deep understanding of the publishing process are vital for effectively advocating for authors and their work.
The first and most important step to start to work as a literary agent is to know yourself.
Since we already established that the motivation is never financial, you need to really enjoy the job. You are basically a huge fans of every author, publisher you represent. You are an asistant to them without any single paycheck monthly. If you are lucky, your balance sheet can reach the break-even point by working side jobs. Most of the time, not.
You do it with all your heart and soul, and it cost your arm and leg. Even then, it would never enough… (I’ll explain at the end)
To begin working as a literary agent, the second step involves gaining a comprehensive understanding of the publishing industry. This includes studying the current market trends, familiarising yourself with different genres and styles, and learning about the various stages involved in the publishing process. It’s crucial to develop a strong grasp of what publishers are seeking, as well as the intricacies of book contracts, negotiations, and rights management. Additionally, networking within the industry, attending many book fairs, literary festivals and building relationships with authors, editors, and publishers can provide invaluable insights and opportunities. Aspiring literary agents should also consider seeking mentorship from established professionals to gain practical knowledge and guidance in this competitive field.
The third step is always be patient and stay positive. You will need a whole lot of it.
Here are what really happened in the field as a literary agent from “small” country
The undervalued international status of Indonesian literature results from limited translations, unfamiliarity, and insufficient promotion. This diminishes Indonesian writers’ global presence. This is what I mean by “small”, compare to the size of the country’s population. Additionally, the rank in literacy by UNESCO in 2022 is second from the bottom with 0,001% reading interest (from 1000 Indonesians only 1 person is avid reader).
I was so excited as not that many representatives of the area I cover and I take my pride everytime I attent a book fair. And every year for at least my first 3 years in the industry, I heard dislike expression and questionning my existance like I didnt belong to be there. But, as I learnt to stack up my positivity (the silverlining of living in Belgium - read my other article: ”Why Belgium Never Feels Like Home”) those comments didnt bother me at all - I used to get insulted and I dont go to their level. This is not hard, not at all and I sometimes fought back verbally when it necessary. It gets you smarter to the situation.
What breaks your heart is that you got disappointed by your fellow authors and publishers. Those people you genuinely love.
Because of the lack of understanding how lucky they are to have “free service for life” to promote their work, the service of a literary agent becomes not valuable, while it should be invaluable. They will take it for granted and leave you a minute they got the deal they want or the work they need. It costs you your reputation, your professional relationship, your income for sure, and it’s just a waste of eveything. You do it with and for love, but how long would you do it? Once the deal breaks just because I refused to introduce one of my contacts (because the translator is not willing to do the job professionally, only accept job because I begged and the publisher dont know that). Yes, that fragile!
I recovered and after “failure”, muster my courage to start anew. I pursue more personal goals and grow for a fresh start. Basically it gets me smarter to balance the work of literary agent and doing it for my gain. No, I dont give up, just having smarter strategy. What I do now is trying to increase translations availability and encourage cross-cultural exchanges and awareness that can elevate Indonesian and Southeast Asian literature’s international value, by being a publisher myself. Follow my story, subscribe my newsletter below.
https://medium.com/@aldatrisda/how-to-start-a-literary-agency-from-southeast-asia-59adfda6aeec