alt Hacker NewsAlong similar lines: many of your favorite authors, musicians, and creators have public email addresses and seem to love getting emails. I’ve started writing notes with my kids to their favorite authors with ideas and always a thank you note.
I’ve gotten replies from authors on NYT best sellers lists, musicians, and more.
People like to be appreciated.
Replies
Ironically, I've found the best way to engage with creators is their YouTube channels. They're incentivized to engage by the algorithm, so if you can land a thoughtful comment early so they don't have to wade through 500 comments to see it the odds you'll get a short reply or a heart are pretty good.
I wasn't sure what to do when I got an email from someone who appreciated my writing. The only emails I usually get are scams, newsletters, and various service updates. I didn't realize how out of practice I was talking to people 1:1.
More people should email people who share interests.
I know some authors in particular never, ever want to be sent story ideas. The potential of being accused of or sued for plagiarism down the track for something even vaguely similar is non-zero.