Publishing Contracts and the Post Negotiation Space: Lifting the Lid on Publishing’s Black Box of Aspirations, Laws and Money

This book challenges our perceptions of author-publisher power imbalances by recasting the publishing contract as a cultural artefact capable of adapting to the industry's changing landscape. It provides possibilities for future negotiations through relational contract theory, revealing the editor as a fundamental agent in the formation and application of contractual terms.

Format: Hardback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 23 March 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Many writers dream of having their work published by a respected publishing house, but they often do not understand the terms of publishing contracts. This lack of understanding can lead to conflicts between authors and publishers, as publishers struggle to meet the creative expectations of authors while meeting the industry's commercial demands. This book challenges our perceptions of these author-publisher power imbalances by recasting the publishing contract as a cultural artifact capable of adapting to the industry's changing landscape.

Based on a three-year study of publishing negotiations, Katherine Day reveals how relational contract theory provides possibilities for future negotiations in what she describes as a 'post-negotiation space.' Drawing on the disciplines of cultural studies, law, publishing studies, and cultural sociology, this book offers a unique perspective from publishing professionals and authors within the post-negotiation space, presenting the editor as a fundamental agent in the formation and application of publishing's contractual terms.

The book begins by exploring the historical and cultural significance of the publishing contract, tracing its evolution from a simple legal document to a complex cultural artifact. Day argues that the contract has become a powerful tool for shaping the industry, but it has also been criticized for its lack of transparency and its ability to exploit authors.

To address these issues, Day proposes a new approach to publishing contracts, one that is based on relational contract theory. Relational contract theory emphasizes the importance of relationships and collaboration in the negotiation process, and it suggests that contracts should be designed to promote mutual benefit and respect between the contracting parties.

The book then provides a detailed analysis of the publishing contract, exploring its various terms and provisions. Day argues that the contract should be flexible and adaptable, capable of responding to the changing needs of the industry and the evolving expectations of authors. She suggests that publishers should be willing to negotiate with authors to find mutually beneficial solutions, rather than imposing their terms on authors.

In addition, the book offers a wealth of practical advice for authors and publishers, including tips on negotiating contract terms, avoiding common pitfalls, and building successful relationships. It also provides a case study of a successful publishing negotiation, which showcases the benefits of a collaborative and respectful approach to contract negotiations.

Overall, this book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the publishing industry, offering a fresh perspective on the author-publisher power imbalances and proposing a new approach to contract negotiations that is based on collaboration and mutual benefit.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 180 x 254 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032373539