Law #34: Be Royal in Your Own Fashion: Act Like a King to Be Treated Like One — A Writer's Guide

The thirty-fourth law in The 48 Laws of Power, "Be royal in your own fashion: Act like a king to be treated like one," emphasizes the importance of self-confidence, dignity, and commanding respect. For writers, this principle is about cultivating an authoritative presence in your craft and career. When you believe in your worth and present yourself accordingly, others will respond with admiration and respect.

Here’s how to embody this principle as a writer and elevate your storytelling, brand, and professional relationships.

Embracing Confidence in Your Craft

Your confidence in your abilities will reflect in your work, making it more impactful and compelling.

1. Write with Authority:

• Approach your stories with conviction, trusting your voice and vision.

• Example: Toni Morrison’s bold narratives and unapologetic voice in works like Beloved command respect and attention.

• Application: Trust your instincts and avoid second-guessing yourself during the creative process. Revisions can refine your ideas, but your core voice should remain strong.

2. Take Ownership of Your Style:

• Embrace what makes your writing unique instead of trying to imitate others.

• Example: Ernest Hemingway’s spare prose style became iconic because he leaned into it fully.

• Application: Identify what sets your storytelling apart and refine it to its fullest potential.

3. Stand Behind Your Choices:

• Every decision you make as a writer—from plot twists to character arcs—should be intentional and unwavering.

• Example: George R.R. Martin’s willingness to kill beloved characters shocked readers but cemented his reputation for unpredictable, powerful storytelling.

• Application: Be deliberate in your creative decisions and trust your audience to follow your lead.

Projecting Confidence in Your Author Brand

Your public persona plays a significant role in how others perceive your value as a writer.

1. Craft a Professional Image:

• A polished author brand signals that you take your craft seriously.

• Example: Neil Gaiman’s carefully curated persona—from his social media presence to his public appearances—reinforces his authority as a storyteller.

• Application: Invest in a professional website, author photos, and consistent branding across platforms.

2. Speak with Conviction:

• Whether in interviews, panels, or social media posts, your words should convey confidence and knowledge.

• Example: Margaret Atwood’s eloquence in discussing her work and themes adds to her aura of authority.

• Application: Practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently, even when discussing challenging topics.

3. Set Boundaries:

• Respect yourself and your time by setting clear boundaries with readers, collaborators, and industry professionals.

• Example: Authors who maintain professionalism in all interactions command more respect than those who are overly accommodating.

• Application: Politely but firmly enforce boundaries, whether it’s about deadlines, feedback, or personal space.

Elevating Your Professional Relationships

How you present yourself in the industry can shape opportunities and the way others treat you.

1. Demand Fair Compensation:

• Value your work enough to negotiate for fair pay and terms.

• Example: Writers like Roxane Gay have advocated for fair treatment and compensation in publishing, inspiring others to do the same.

• Application: Research industry standards and don’t be afraid to negotiate contracts or royalties.

2. Surround Yourself with Respectful Collaborators:

• Work with agents, editors, and publishers who value your contributions.

• Example: Authors who prioritize respectful professional relationships build long-lasting, supportive networks.

• Application: Choose collaborators who align with your values and treat you with dignity.

3. Command Respect Through Actions:

• Deliver on your promises and consistently produce high-quality work.

• Example: Brandon Sanderson’s reputation for delivering excellent stories on schedule has earned him immense respect in the industry.

• Application: Build trust through reliability, professionalism, and dedication to your craft.

Creating Stories with Gravitas

A royal mindset extends to the stories you tell, elevating your narratives with depth and impact.

1. Address Universal Themes:

• Stories that explore profound, timeless questions resonate deeply with readers.

• Example: Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude explores themes of love, power, and destiny with epic scope.

• Application: Weave universal themes into your stories, giving them lasting significance.

2. Build Worlds Worth Admiring:

• Whether writing fiction or nonfiction, create settings and ideas that inspire awe.

• Example: Frank Herbert’s Dune captivates readers with its intricate worldbuilding and philosophical depth.

• Application: Invest time in crafting immersive, thought-provoking worlds that leave a lasting impression.

3. Write Characters with Presence:

• Characters who exude confidence, intelligence, or charisma become unforgettable.

• Example: Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice is admired for her wit, self-respect, and boldness.

• Application: Develop characters who embody qualities your readers aspire to or respect.

Avoiding Pitfalls

While confidence and authority are vital, they must be balanced with humility and authenticity.

• Don’t Be Arrogant:

  • Overconfidence can alienate readers and peers.

  • Solution: Balance confidence with gratitude and openness to feedback.

• Avoid Overpromising:

  • Making promises you can’t keep damages your credibility.

  • Solution: Be realistic about what you can deliver and communicate clearly.

• Stay Authentic:

  • Pretending to be something you’re not undermines trust.

  • Solution: Be genuine in your interactions and let your confidence come from a place of truth.

Conclusion: Commanding Respect as a Writer

Law #34, "Be royal in your own fashion: Act like a king to be treated like one," is about valuing yourself and projecting confidence in your craft and career. By embracing your unique voice, maintaining professionalism, and creating work with depth and gravitas, you can command the respect of readers, peers, and industry professionals. Remember, the way you carry yourself sets the tone for how others treat you.

In the next installment of this series, we’ll explore Law #35, "Master the art of timing," and how strategic timing can enhance your storytelling and career decisions. Stay tuned for more insights into The 48 Laws of Power for writers.