Artist Gutu Abera on Seifu show

In a startling revelation, he reveals that the cost of publishing his second book soared to over 210 Birr. Eager to shed light on the escalating expenses associated with book production, he shared with the BBC that he had to allocate more than 600,000 Birr to print 3,000 copies of his latest work, titled "Guns and Music." This thought-provoking book delves into the rich tapestry of Ethiopian music, exploring its history and its intricate connection with politics.

In an industry where the number of pages in a book, alongside the intricacies of its subject matter, can significantly impact the price of publication, his experience underscores the challenges faced by authors. The ever-increasing costs of bringing a book to life weigh heavily on writers, presenting a formidable barrier to sharing their literary creations with the world.

As he highlights the soaring expenses endured during the publishing process, it serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between the length, content, and financial implications of producing a book. These factors, when combined, determine the ultimate price that authors must bear, posing substantial hurdles and limiting accessibility to their works.

The reality he exposes prompts a somber reflection on the economic realities faced by authors, as they navigate the delicate balance between their creative ambitions and the financial constraints of the publishing industry. It serves as a call to action for stakeholders to seek solutions that promote a more equitable publishing landscape, fostering an environment where the voices of talented writers can resonate freely, irrespective of the economic challenges they may encounter along their literary journeys.