For decades, the phrase ‘I just need to find an agent’ has echoed through writing circles.
It’s become almost a rite of passage, the golden ticket to publishing success.
The idea that, until an agent plucks you from obscurity, you’re just another hopeful with a manuscript gathering dust.
But that’s an old story, and publishing has moved on. The truth is that writers no longer need an agent to become published authors.
In fact, for many, the agent model is no longer the best route at all.
So where the myth come from?
In the not-so-distant past, most major publishers refused to accept unsolicited manuscripts. Their editors were overwhelmed, so they relied on literary agents to function as filters, sifting through the slush pile, spotting potential, and presenting polished, marketable work.
Agents became the gatekeepers: the ones who could get your manuscript through the publisher’s door.
And for years, that was the only way in.
But the landscape has shifted dramatically.
Today, the publishing world looks nothing like it did twenty or even ten years ago. The digital revolution has levelled the playing field.
Independent publishing, hybrid models, and smaller presses have opened new doors.
Many of these publishers actively welcome direct submissions from authors.
Others, like my own company, Couzens-Lake Media, are built on the belief that writers shouldn’t have to ask for permission to be heard.
You can now access professional editors, proofreaders, cover designers, and marketing specialists directly — the same services publishers use — without surrendering your creative control or waiting for someone else to ‘discover’ you.
The power has shifted.
You can now take ownership of your own publishing journey.
Admittedly, and to paraphrase a line of the great Bard himself, I don’t come to completely bury agents…as they do merit some praise.
Because (and maybe this is key?) a good one can be invaluable when it comes to securing large commercial publishing deals, negotiating film or foreign rights, or managing a high-profile author’s schedule.
But for the majority of writers, particularly those writing their first or second book, or those with niche, personal, or specialist subjects-an agent is no longer essential.
In many cases, a skilled, independent publishing team can offer the same expertise, often with greater flexibility, transparency, and personal investment in the author’s success.
I’m not just talking the talk here either.
I’ve been approached by agents over the years, but I’ve chosen not to sign with one. That’s not a criticism of what they do; some are excellent and deeply committed to their authors.
But for me, it’s about independence. About being able to do the work needed myself and learning the process from the inside out. I want to know everything about this business, including the dark and abandoned rooms in its long-abandoned cellar.
Because it’s about authoring my own story, not being a character in someone else’s.
I’ve found that building direct relationships with clients, publishers, and readers has given me a broader understanding of how publishing really works-and, crucially, how it can work better.
The myth that you need an agent isn’t just outdated: it’s disempowering.
It suggests that your success depends on being chosen, on waiting for validation from someone else before you can take the next step.
But the best thing any writer can do for their book is to take control of it.
Finish the manuscript.
Polish it.
Find the right team to support you-whether that’s editors, designers, or marketing experts.
Learn the process, make informed decisions, and own your story from start to finish.
That’s not rebellion. It’s realism. It’s professional authorship for the 21st century.
Be not afraid-the door is open.
There’s never been a better time to be a writer. Traditional publishing remains a valid path, but it’s no longer the only one…
…or even, for many, the best one.
So if you’ve been holding back because you haven’t found an agent yet, take this as your permission slip to move forward.
You don’t need one to be legitimate.
You don’t need one to be good.
And you certainly don’t need one to get your book out into the world.
Agents can open doors.
But so can you.
