The expression refers to the act of generating substantial profit or success through the publication of a written work. For example, an author might be described as having achieved this feat if their book rapidly climbs bestseller lists and generates significant royalties and media attention.
Achieving this outcome is highly desirable for authors and publishers alike. It provides financial security, enhances an author’s reputation, and can lead to further opportunities, such as film adaptations or subsequent book deals. Historically, only a small percentage of published books attain this level of success, making it a challenging but potentially rewarding endeavor.