Earning Can Be a Joke!
The way writing platforms give pittance

I have been writing on Medium,
almost daily, since two years,
treating it like a part-time job.
I have a huge portfolio now,
of close to 3000 stories—
not random love stories,
but highly critical topics,
on health, nature,
creativity, gardening, etc.
I pay $15 as a subscription fee,
and barely earn double.
It’s ridiculous.
I continue writing there,
mostly for self-expression,
and raising awareness.
or I would bid goodbye.
When I was contemplating,
this sad state of earning,
I remembered an experience,
about a decade back.
I reviewed project proposal,
for a Middle-eastern university.
Barely two hours work,
and they paid me $500!
That was easiest earning—
I ever got for online gig.
So, these pittance of earnings,
feel like a joke to me.
No regard for merit, effort,
or time, just randomness—
like particles of Brownian movement.
Below is my Medium profile. If you want to check and follow:
About the Creator
Seema Patel
Hi, I am Seema. I have been writing on the internet for 15 years. I have contributed to PubMed, Blogger, Medium, LinkedIn, Substack, and Amazon KDP.
I write about nature, health, parenting, creativity, gardening, and psychology.




Comments (6)
I also have a medium account, and I keep meaning to write there but since I just started my new transcription job online it is hard to find the time. Good job in sharing.
I recently rejoined Medium after an 8-month absence. Back then, I binned all my stories and followers due to the high job demands and platform burnout. Looking back, I realize the burnout was self-induced. This time around, I am doing things differently. I will reconnect with you on Medium, Seema. Don't give up, please!
I only post on Vocal now, I'm more inspired by writers such as yourself xx
Your dedication is amazing—your voice matters, and one day your hard work will shine bright!
Glorious poem!!!
Wonderful ♦️♦️♦️