What’s Gone Wrong With Vocal?

What’s Gone Wrong With Vocal?

420 subscribers

But only 14 likes some days?

It’s hard not to wonder — am I being held back?

It’s the 9th of June, and by now, my earnings are usually $18 or more.

Not this time.

This month, I’ve made just $2.44 in 9 days.

What’s changed?

In September, my rejoin fee will be $99.

Last year it was just over $40.

That’s a big jump — and I’m asking myself, is it still worth it?

I’ve entered so many challenges — one haiku even placed second.

But lately, it feels like fewer Top Stories are being handed out.

More limited. More selective.

And yes, I’ll say it — the same names often rise to the top.

So I’ve stopped entering.

The spark has dimmed.

From September to April, I loved Vocal.

It gave me a boost. A focus.

I’m not asking for backing. I’m not chasing sympathy.

But it’s clear changes have been made,

and they seem to work better for Vocal —

less payout overall, while top writers keep earning.

I’m sorry to say this — it’s all started to feel different.

I know not everyone can win all the time — fair enough —

but sometimes it feels like there’s one path for the try-hards

and another for those already up there.

I’ll stick around until September.

But I won’t renew at $99 if it’s just to sit on the sidelines.

I value myself more than that.

Nine days I’ve waited, hoping for a Top Story.

Five dollars.

No sign of it.

Maybe it’s time to move on — like a few others have said too.

And I’ve noticed — those names always up top?

They don’t like and comment as much anymore.

And maybe that’s the game — staying distant to stay high.

I know this is blunt.

I know some won’t like it.

But for me, the enjoyment has faded.

Still, I’ll always be glad I was here.

For a while, it felt like home.

Now? I’m not so sure.