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| By any other name... |
Rejection can be a bitter pill to take, not least because it isn't always clear what to do next. Oh, sure, you can dive into the Handbook or the Yearbook, but have you ever received a note back from an agent or publisher and wondered exactly what they're trying to say?
Grab a comforting drink and find yourself a
comfy space - it's time to break the code...
1. Not one for me this time (because hell
hasn't frozen over and we want to stay solvent).
2. Your work shows great promise, however. (Many
of the words are spelt correctly and appear in the right order. Well done, you.)
3. Unfortunately I'm unable to give you any
feedback (because it's difficult to laugh this much and type at the same
time).
4. Our schedule is full for the next year (with
real books). (And the year after that I'll do whatever it
takes...)
5. However, I'd be interested in seeing your
next book. (Go away for a year or so and try to forget about me.)
6. We have a special scheme for new authors. (Do
you have any money? We could really use a sponsor.)
7. It's an unusual premise. (Your ideas scare
me, or confuse me, or revolt me.)
8. Unfortunately we've recently taken on
something similar (only with better ideas and better execution).
9. After careful consideration...(we let the
intern decide).
10. It still needs some work. (You've cut
corners and it shows.)
11. I hope you won't feel too disappointed by
this letter. (I have no concept of how important this is to you.)
12. I wish you every success in finding the
right agent or publisher. (Next!)
13. The story failed to come alive on the page.
(I want magical pages that sing and dance.)
14. There was insufficient narrative tension and
the characterisation wasn't fully realised. (I have an MA and you can't
disprove my opinions.)
15. It's not our policy to reconsider previously
rejected material. (You again? You may be desperate, but we're not.)
16. This is only my opinion and you may find
another agent or publisher who sees your book differently. (I didn't like it
- end of story. Someone else might dislike it less.)
About the author
Derek Thompson is a humorist and purveyor of words. Some people mistake that for being an embittered cynic, which is a shame. Especially if they are potential clients. However, if his brand of wit doesn't put you off and you need a writer, drop him a line - he wants to buy more shiny things.
