Dearest Amanda, I know how upsetting this is, but darling, there really is only one YOU. You are fabulous and people want to be you. Nobody is going to believe these thieves are you, the original. As you so skillfully wrote, it's fucking hard to make it as a freelancer and on Substack. No one is going to make it bigger than you by stealing your content. No one is going to get "the big deal" by calling you names.
They just bring more attention to the original, which is YOU.
No one is copying me, and that's because I am not and up and coming star like you (yes, I am fabulous in my 57 year-old way, but as my 12 yr old son keeps reminding me, I am old). Fuck the haters and the stealers. I think it's awesome that you are getting some great stories out of this experience, keep alchemizing it!! XO 🥰❤️
you *are* a star! There’s no one else that can write like you, honestly. I showed one of your latest pieces to everyone I know, and they were all in awe of your talent, and in awe of how you managed to talk about a heartbreaking subject so beautifully and with so much grace.
You’re the star here.
I’m grateful you started writing, regardless of your age. You’re a gift to this world and I’m super glad you’re writing right here, right now.
And I wish I had your expertise and your experience! I was literally reading some articles about writers who are late bloomers, and I thought I’d share them with you!
You’re already known by many, and you even have loyal, devoted fans (ME!!)
I’m only crying a little bit because of my fall allergies and not because you wrote one of the kindest comments I’ve ever read. Sniffle, sniffle. Thank you sweet friend. I really do appreciate you, the OG you. Just remember, by the time someone steals your work and publishes it, it’s already old news and you’re on to the next thing. Oh, and fuck the magazines that steal your work without paying. I just put a hex on them, which as a widow I’m allowed to do. No one questions if I am bitter, vengeful, and all powerful 🤣
so sorry this happened to you love :( it’s so clear why someone would choose your light to leech off of- if there’s a self-hatred or lack of original thought going on, the first person you’d try to bring down is someone who’s loved by their audience and puts out a stream of quality content, which I know you just can’t help but be- but you don’t deserve this at all ❤️
oh my god, i’m TEARING UP! That’s the sweetest thing ever. Even though this is such an unfortunate situation, you still managed to make my day, honestly. Thank you for being such a good friend! I love you SO much! 🥹🫶🏻💌✨ Screenshotting this and putting it in my little book 🥹✨
amanda, i can't even imagine how you are feeling right now. this is so disgusting that this is even happening and people really just need to start being original!! or else why are you on this platform to start with omg
emma!!! Been meaning to tell you how talented you are!! content like yours is the one that needs to be protected the most, the beautiful world you create is yours only! 💌
Hey Amanda!! First of all, it's been a while (creative block once again hehe). But I just read your newsletter.
I’m so sorry you're dealing with all of this! I feeeel you when you say being a freelance writer in 2024 is hard. Work is not getting picked up. It feels like pushing and fighting sometimes. I think that's where my block also started to build up again. And I've always been so afraid of copycats so I've always been very reluctant with publishing everything online/ on socials, even though people scream for me to just do it.
I understand it's so infuriating when your hard work and unique voice are disrespected like that. You’re doing amazing things with your Substack, and I’m excited to see it continue to grow. You're one of my faves!!
Glad you’re back! Thank you so much for your comment! All of your comments and your support makes me so happy, truly! Love to see you commenting! 🥹
Being a freelance writer has never been harder, dare I say. But I’m super happy Substack has been taking action regarding my copycats!! But it scares me that there might some people still copying me and I’m not aware of that. I guess I’ll always live with that fear because my love for writing and my desire to connect with people through it is much bigger than my fear.
Thankfully I have a lot of friends I made here that have my back, always reporting these people and telling me about the copies! One thing we can take from this is that friendships are very important. Oh, and speaking out on things that are bothering us are also very important.
If you ever go through this (God, I hope you never do), I want you to know that I’m here for you!! I think you should keep writing beautifully as you always do! I love you! 🩷✨💖
I can’t imagine how frustrating it must be dealing with copycats, but I’m so glad Substack is stepping in to help. It’s so scary to think there might be more out there, but I feel like that's perhaps a modern day writer thing... the internet and all.. ugh
But hey, it's amazing that you have such a strong community backing you up. I’m here for you too! And thank you so much for your kind words, that means a lot! Sending you all the love and support right back! 💖
I'm so SO sorry for all the shit you've had to put up with but the fact that you've managed to keep writing such lovely pieces is testimony to your talent ❤️ another banger beloved.
AYAN!!! You’re SUCH a goddess. And the fact that you’re being the kindest and the sweetest makes my heart so warm! It definitely compensates for all of things I’ve been through on here lol. I love you and I appreciate you SO MUCH! 🥹🎀✨
I'm so sorry you have to keep dealing with this Amanda! I hope Substack takes action soon. Even if there are people trying to plagiarize or impersonate you, they will NEVER be you. You will always be at the forefront with new ideas while these little trolls are waiting for your next move.
That comforts me a lot!! I’m super happy to hear that everyone STILL has my back (lol). Paywalling half of my content also helped a lot! The support is the most valuable thing to me, and I’m super grateful that people are taking action and reporting my impersonators!
Anyway, your support means so much to me! Thank you so much, you’re the sweetest girl ever! 🥹💖🫶🏻💌✨
I don't remember which famous author said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery (Oscar Wilde?) but it's absolutely true. Think of all the would-be TV star chefs who tried to be Anthony Bourdain. CNN literally copied the entire format of "Parts Unknown" with "Searching for Italy." Featuring an actor who was basically playing Tony! So, however upsetting this can be, you're the original and the imitators can't hold a candle to you. You'll be fine!
even when something like this is happening, it’s so amazing how you can turn it into gold and write a great post like this. keep doing what you’re doing, no one can replicate your voice 💌
D.J! You write some of the most important pieces ever for this platform! I admire and respect you so much, you have no idea. Thank you so much for your support!! I really appreciate that! Let’s see if Substack will let me have my peace lol 😫
Dearest Amanda, This is my letter to say I wish I could do so much more for you. If I was still in the military, Umm, [redacted] can't say officially but the problem would be gone. If I win the lottery, I will start a retreat for writers and other artists to live and work at my expense. Truly, I know how much it sucks. It is the worst feeling to have your work, hard work taken form you by any means. You are a very good writer. I follow and subscribe because if I subscribe to, The New Yorker, The Atlantic, The Paris Review, I think you are worth it to me to follow. My word s might not make it better, but in my heart, I feel for you. If this ends up in a new place on line, I want to come along. No matter what. You are the best! 💖🌹💕🙌
The retreat idea is so sweet, so happy you have such a caring soul. It truly is like a stab in your heart when someone steals your content, and after being stabbed multiple times, your words truly help me to get better. The wound is healing! ❤️🩹
Thank you for your kind words. I can imagine how much you do. This, school and everything else you put your soul into and whatever social life you have left. Just know, if you EVER feel down or not worthy, look up those post that love you. Look me up, here or DM and I’ll get you back on track. It is what true friends do for each other. We look out for each other and cherish each others existence. 🌹❤
people are so annoying!! I’m so sorry that this is still happening to you and others. it’s completely frustrating and I’m not even the one experiencing it. being original is a lot more fun, these people should try it sometime
hi, gorgeous! People are SO annoying. And thank you for always being the best! You’re such a sweetheart, and your heart is as gorgeous as you! Your support means the whole world, I find comfort in it! AND PEOPLE, BE ORIGINAL CHALLENGE.
Dearest Amanda, I know how upsetting this is, but darling, there really is only one YOU. You are fabulous and people want to be you. Nobody is going to believe these thieves are you, the original. As you so skillfully wrote, it's fucking hard to make it as a freelancer and on Substack. No one is going to make it bigger than you by stealing your content. No one is going to get "the big deal" by calling you names.
They just bring more attention to the original, which is YOU.
No one is copying me, and that's because I am not and up and coming star like you (yes, I am fabulous in my 57 year-old way, but as my 12 yr old son keeps reminding me, I am old). Fuck the haters and the stealers. I think it's awesome that you are getting some great stories out of this experience, keep alchemizing it!! XO 🥰❤️
Dearest Amy,
you *are* a star! There’s no one else that can write like you, honestly. I showed one of your latest pieces to everyone I know, and they were all in awe of your talent, and in awe of how you managed to talk about a heartbreaking subject so beautifully and with so much grace.
You’re the star here.
I’m grateful you started writing, regardless of your age. You’re a gift to this world and I’m super glad you’re writing right here, right now.
And I wish I had your expertise and your experience! I was literally reading some articles about writers who are late bloomers, and I thought I’d share them with you!
You’re already known by many, and you even have loyal, devoted fans (ME!!)
I love you!
https://litreactor.com/columns/10-authors-who-prove-its-never-too-late-to-start-writing
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2008/10/20/late-bloomers-malcolm-gladwell
I’m only crying a little bit because of my fall allergies and not because you wrote one of the kindest comments I’ve ever read. Sniffle, sniffle. Thank you sweet friend. I really do appreciate you, the OG you. Just remember, by the time someone steals your work and publishes it, it’s already old news and you’re on to the next thing. Oh, and fuck the magazines that steal your work without paying. I just put a hex on them, which as a widow I’m allowed to do. No one questions if I am bitter, vengeful, and all powerful 🤣
Awww, Amy!! I love you so much!
I’ll always celebrate you in every chance I get.
Loving the hex comments LOL!! Don’t know about bitter and vengeful, but powerful, you are. You totally are. 🥹💖✨🫶🏻
You're good enough that people want to steal from you! Means you're doing something right! Keep up the good work.
Thalia!! That’s a good point LOL
Thank you for reading! 🥹🫶🏻
so sorry this happened to you love :( it’s so clear why someone would choose your light to leech off of- if there’s a self-hatred or lack of original thought going on, the first person you’d try to bring down is someone who’s loved by their audience and puts out a stream of quality content, which I know you just can’t help but be- but you don’t deserve this at all ❤️
eve!!!
oh my god, i’m TEARING UP! That’s the sweetest thing ever. Even though this is such an unfortunate situation, you still managed to make my day, honestly. Thank you for being such a good friend! I love you SO much! 🥹🫶🏻💌✨ Screenshotting this and putting it in my little book 🥹✨
love love love you ❤️❤️ hope that book is full to the brim soon!!
Hey Amanda, sorry you’re dealing with this. If there’s ever anything Su or I can do to help, please let us know.
Roman! Thank you so much for your comment, it truly means a lot. You and Su are such a dynamic duo, I love seeing your interactions!
be original challenge (impossible edition)
LMAOOOOO
amanda, i can't even imagine how you are feeling right now. this is so disgusting that this is even happening and people really just need to start being original!! or else why are you on this platform to start with omg
emma!!! Been meaning to tell you how talented you are!! content like yours is the one that needs to be protected the most, the beautiful world you create is yours only! 💌
Talk to me if you ever need anything at all! 🫶🏻
Hey Amanda!! First of all, it's been a while (creative block once again hehe). But I just read your newsletter.
I’m so sorry you're dealing with all of this! I feeeel you when you say being a freelance writer in 2024 is hard. Work is not getting picked up. It feels like pushing and fighting sometimes. I think that's where my block also started to build up again. And I've always been so afraid of copycats so I've always been very reluctant with publishing everything online/ on socials, even though people scream for me to just do it.
I understand it's so infuriating when your hard work and unique voice are disrespected like that. You’re doing amazing things with your Substack, and I’m excited to see it continue to grow. You're one of my faves!!
Hi Lisa!!! Missed you!! 🥹💖✨🩷
Glad you’re back! Thank you so much for your comment! All of your comments and your support makes me so happy, truly! Love to see you commenting! 🥹
Being a freelance writer has never been harder, dare I say. But I’m super happy Substack has been taking action regarding my copycats!! But it scares me that there might some people still copying me and I’m not aware of that. I guess I’ll always live with that fear because my love for writing and my desire to connect with people through it is much bigger than my fear.
Thankfully I have a lot of friends I made here that have my back, always reporting these people and telling me about the copies! One thing we can take from this is that friendships are very important. Oh, and speaking out on things that are bothering us are also very important.
If you ever go through this (God, I hope you never do), I want you to know that I’m here for you!! I think you should keep writing beautifully as you always do! I love you! 🩷✨💖
Awww missed you too!! Happy to be here!
I can’t imagine how frustrating it must be dealing with copycats, but I’m so glad Substack is stepping in to help. It’s so scary to think there might be more out there, but I feel like that's perhaps a modern day writer thing... the internet and all.. ugh
But hey, it's amazing that you have such a strong community backing you up. I’m here for you too! And thank you so much for your kind words, that means a lot! Sending you all the love and support right back! 💖
I'm so SO sorry for all the shit you've had to put up with but the fact that you've managed to keep writing such lovely pieces is testimony to your talent ❤️ another banger beloved.
AYAN!!! You’re SUCH a goddess. And the fact that you’re being the kindest and the sweetest makes my heart so warm! It definitely compensates for all of things I’ve been through on here lol. I love you and I appreciate you SO MUCH! 🥹🎀✨
I LOVE YOU MORE my heart 🥹❤️❤️💕💕💕
I'm so sorry you have to keep dealing with this Amanda! I hope Substack takes action soon. Even if there are people trying to plagiarize or impersonate you, they will NEVER be you. You will always be at the forefront with new ideas while these little trolls are waiting for your next move.
Aww, Aliena! Thank you so much!
That comforts me a lot!! I’m super happy to hear that everyone STILL has my back (lol). Paywalling half of my content also helped a lot! The support is the most valuable thing to me, and I’m super grateful that people are taking action and reporting my impersonators!
Anyway, your support means so much to me! Thank you so much, you’re the sweetest girl ever! 🥹💖🫶🏻💌✨
I don't remember which famous author said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery (Oscar Wilde?) but it's absolutely true. Think of all the would-be TV star chefs who tried to be Anthony Bourdain. CNN literally copied the entire format of "Parts Unknown" with "Searching for Italy." Featuring an actor who was basically playing Tony! So, however upsetting this can be, you're the original and the imitators can't hold a candle to you. You'll be fine!
Lia!!!
Thank you so much! 🥹🫶🏻
That honestly means a lot to me.
I’m truly grateful for people like you, you have such a beautiful soul! And your comments make me so happy! Thank you for cheering me up! 🩷
even when something like this is happening, it’s so amazing how you can turn it into gold and write a great post like this. keep doing what you’re doing, no one can replicate your voice 💌
Leah! Aww, thank you so much, omg! You’re the sweetest girl in the world, I’m lucky to be your friend! 🥹💌
ugh Amanda I am so sorry. The writing scene is so rough out there and it sucks that people on here are actively making it worse.
D.J! You write some of the most important pieces ever for this platform! I admire and respect you so much, you have no idea. Thank you so much for your support!! I really appreciate that! Let’s see if Substack will let me have my peace lol 😫
Amanda, this is 1) so sweet I could cry and 2) a very mutual feeling!! I hope you get your peace soon 🤍
sympathy is a knife at the end -- exaaaaaaaaaaaaactly
alix!!!! you get it 🤭🫶🏻💌✨
Well written. I hope we value writing again.
Thank you so so much! That means a lot! ❤️🥹
You're welcome.
Dearest Amanda, This is my letter to say I wish I could do so much more for you. If I was still in the military, Umm, [redacted] can't say officially but the problem would be gone. If I win the lottery, I will start a retreat for writers and other artists to live and work at my expense. Truly, I know how much it sucks. It is the worst feeling to have your work, hard work taken form you by any means. You are a very good writer. I follow and subscribe because if I subscribe to, The New Yorker, The Atlantic, The Paris Review, I think you are worth it to me to follow. My word s might not make it better, but in my heart, I feel for you. If this ends up in a new place on line, I want to come along. No matter what. You are the best! 💖🌹💕🙌
Mark!! You do so much for me already! 🥹🫶🏻
I appreciate everything that you do so much!
The retreat idea is so sweet, so happy you have such a caring soul. It truly is like a stab in your heart when someone steals your content, and after being stabbed multiple times, your words truly help me to get better. The wound is healing! ❤️🩹
Thank you for your kind words. I can imagine how much you do. This, school and everything else you put your soul into and whatever social life you have left. Just know, if you EVER feel down or not worthy, look up those post that love you. Look me up, here or DM and I’ll get you back on track. It is what true friends do for each other. We look out for each other and cherish each others existence. 🌹❤
🥹🫶🏻
people are so annoying!! I’m so sorry that this is still happening to you and others. it’s completely frustrating and I’m not even the one experiencing it. being original is a lot more fun, these people should try it sometime
hi, gorgeous! People are SO annoying. And thank you for always being the best! You’re such a sweetheart, and your heart is as gorgeous as you! Your support means the whole world, I find comfort in it! AND PEOPLE, BE ORIGINAL CHALLENGE.
lmao literally! and of course!! I will always support you🫶🏼🫶🏼 you deserve only the best🤍🤍