Law #27: Play on People’s Need to Believe to Create a Cult-Like Following — A Writer's Guide

The twenty-seventh law in The 48 Laws of Power, "Play on people’s need to believe to create a cult-like following," focuses on tapping into the human desire for connection, purpose, and belief. For writers, this law offers insights into building a devoted readership that buys your books, champions your work, and eagerly anticipates your next release. Cultivating this level of loyalty is less about manipulation and more about creating a meaningful, shared experience for your readers.

Here’s how to ethically and effectively apply this principle to your writing career.

Crafting Stories That Resonate Deeply

Stories that inspire belief and loyalty are the foundation of a devoted following. These stories go beyond entertainment to provide meaning, connection, or a sense of identity.

1. Write with Authenticity:

• Readers connect with stories that feel genuine and emotionally true.

• Example: J.R.R. Tolkien’s deeply personal love of language and mythology permeates The Lord of the Rings, creating a rich and immersive world.

• Application: Infuse your stories with themes and values that resonate deeply with you, as authenticity will naturally attract like-minded readers.

2. Tap into Universal Themes:

• Stories that explore universal struggles or aspirations foster emotional connection.

• Example: Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games explores themes of survival, rebellion, and sacrifice, resonating with a wide audience.

• Application: Identify universal themes that align with your story and weave them into your narrative to create a shared emotional experience.

3. Create Characters Worth Believing In:

• Memorable characters inspire loyalty and investment.

• Example: Fans of Harry Potter identify deeply with the characters and their struggles, forming an enduring connection to the series.

• Application: Develop characters with relatable flaws, compelling arcs, and qualities that inspire admiration or empathy.

Building a Community Around Your Work

A loyal audience isn’t just about the stories—it’s about the sense of belonging they feel as part of your community.

1. Engage Consistently with Readers:

• Regular communication helps readers feel connected to you and your work.

• Example: Brandon Sanderson’s updates on his writing progress foster transparency and excitement among his fans.

• Application: Use newsletters, social media, or livestreams to keep readers informed and engaged.

2. Foster a Sense of Exclusivity:

• People value what feels special or unique.

• Example: Patreon-exclusive content or limited-edition merchandise creates a sense of privilege for supporters.

• Application: Offer exclusive bonuses, behind-the-scenes insights, or early access to books to reward your most loyal fans.

3. Encourage Reader Interaction:

• Involving readers in your creative process deepens their connection to your work.

• Example: Hosting Q&A sessions, polls, or fan art contests invites readers to participate in your world.

• Application: Find ways to include your audience in your journey, making them feel like collaborators in your success.

Crafting a Powerful Author Persona

A strong author persona inspires belief and loyalty by projecting confidence, vision, and purpose.

1. Be Relatable Yet Aspirational:

• Balance relatability with qualities that inspire admiration.

• Example: Neil Gaiman’s blend of humility and wisdom makes him a beloved figure in the literary world.

• Application: Share personal anecdotes or struggles while demonstrating expertise and passion for your craft.

2. Stand for Something Bigger:

• Align your brand with a purpose or message that resonates with readers.

• Example: Angie Thomas uses her platform to advocate for social justice, mirroring the themes of her book The Hate U Give.

• Application: Identify the larger themes or causes your work reflects and incorporate them into your public presence.

3. Maintain Consistency:

• A consistent voice and message reinforce your identity and build trust.

• Example: Rupi Kaur’s minimalist poetry and visuals create a cohesive and recognizable brand.

• Application: Ensure your public persona aligns with your writing and values across all platforms.

Turning Readers into Advocates

Loyal readers who actively promote your work are invaluable for building a lasting career.

1. Deliver Exceptional Value:

• Consistently meeting or exceeding expectations turns readers into advocates.

• Example: Readers trust authors like Leigh Bardugo to deliver intricate, high-quality fantasy worlds with every book.

• Application: Focus on creating stories that exceed expectations in depth, quality, and emotional impact.

2. Encourage Word-of-Mouth Marketing:

• Loyal readers who recommend your work expand your reach organically.

• Example: The viral success of Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens was driven largely by enthusiastic reader recommendations.

• Application: Incentivize reviews, testimonials, or book club discussions to amplify word-of-mouth promotion.

3. Reward Loyalty:

• Show appreciation for your most dedicated fans.

• Example: Personalized book signings or shoutouts to superfans create lasting goodwill.

• Application: Recognize and reward loyal readers through giveaways, personalized messages, or exclusive content.

Avoiding the Pitfalls of Cult-Like Followings

While building a devoted readership is valuable, it’s important to avoid manipulative or unethical practices.

• Don’t Exploit Belief:

  • Exploiting readers’ trust for personal gain undermines authenticity.

  • Solution: Be transparent and genuine in your interactions and offerings.

• Avoid Polarizing Behavior:

  • Creating divisiveness to rally a fanbase can alienate others and harm your reputation.

  • Solution: Focus on inclusivity and positivity in your messaging.

• Stay Grounded:

  • Letting your ego inflate from loyal followers can lead to poor decisions or disconnect.

  • Solution: Remain humble and focused on your craft and values.

Conclusion: Building a Meaningful Connection

Law #27, "Play on people’s need to believe to create a cult-like following," highlights the power of meaningful connection. You can cultivate a loyal readership that champions your work by crafting stories that resonate, engaging with your readers authentically, and fostering a sense of community. Loyalty isn’t about manipulation; it’s about offering something valuable and genuine that readers can believe in.

In the next installment of this series, we’ll explore Law #28, "Enter action with boldness," and how taking bold, decisive steps can transform your writing career. Stay tuned for more insights into The 48 Laws of Power for writers.