#0058 More Perspectives on Rejection
Because crowdsourcing is a thing
From the notion of champagne rejections to advice based on Rupert Everett’s newest book release, lots of writers have ideas about the topic of rejection.
It’s useful to seek out other thoughts, including from people outside our circle:
those making a living by writing full time
the literary agents who not only review submissions but also try to sell them to publishers
authors who are creative writing teachers
Sometimes perspectives far from our own can help us reset our tunnel vision of what rejection can mean.
Here are more viewpoints on rejection for your reading pleasure.
I got a champagne rejection recently that made me so happy it hardly felt like a rejection at all.
I’d applied for a coveted spot at an exclusive writers retreat run by a popular bestselling author. I didn’t get accepted, but I did get a personal note from the author. She said my application "blew her away” and my writing sample was “masterfully done.” She also said I was at the very top of the waitlist, and she hoped I’d apply to the retreat next year, which I definitely plan to do.
That rejection felt like a win, and in this business we can all use some of ego-boosting rejections now and then.
Eva’s Newsletter for Writers shares resources for writers on the journey to publication. Half the posts are free.
In “Turning rejection into success, And other creative tips from Rupert Everett,”
shares how actor and author Rupert Everett created something new out of something old, and the ways she applies the lesson in her own writing career. Here’s a taste of her perspective:Rejection helps you refine and improve your work.
It’s difficult getting a book deal or a script commissioned, but if you get knocked back, spend some time reflecting on why it didn’t make the cut.
Perhaps an agent or editor felt your book would be too hard to market. Could you make some editorial changes that means it sits more comfortably in a specific genre? I’ve noticed many women’s fiction authors have started to position themselves as domestic thriller writers or moved more squarely into romance. Cross genre scripts or books are difficult to position so make it easier for publishing and TV executives or retailers to say ‘yes’ to you.
We Are All Creatives is where Tasmina shares her advice and experience from a long and varied career. Some posts are free.
I’ve seen countless writers throw in the towel and give up. They don’t see instant results, take rejection personally, and decide writing isn’t worth all the time and effort. But one thing I’ve learned during my writing career is that rejection is often a stepping stone to success. Because when you try to become a full-time writer, one of two things will happen: either you’ll succeed, or you’ll give up too early.
According to the blurb, Weekly Wednesdays is “about how [Matt Lillywhite] built a profitable writing career.” Some posts are free.
Literary agent and developmental editor
, via Griffon Quill, this week posted, “The Science of Rejection: How Agents Decide In the First Ten Pages.” She shares:What We Look For
Most agents wear two hats when they read—one as a reader and one as an editor. We’re looking for a story that grabs our interest, but we’re also subconsciously checking whether the manuscript requires too much work to make it submission ready.
Griffon Quill is where Renee Fountain shares writing tips, an insider’s view of the world of publishing, and her insights as a literary agent. Completely FREE newsletter.
Art making is worthwhile. Submitting is like self-care to me—I’m showing up for myself every time I take a chance on what I truly want. I don’t know. I just think it’s important to never be discouraged entirely from art-making, and sharing that art. I’m probably going to tell this student: Life can be so discouraging, but you know—good things can happen. You can find your people, your feature, your publication, or the right opportunity to shine—I believe in you! Keep working.
Terese’s Substack is the author’s personal Substack. Some posts are free.
Next time: Embracing or rejecting the daily writing mantra.
Thanks for the shout-out! I love this idea of the 100 Rejections Club. If the qualification is to get 100 Rejections on your work, I am definitely a member and have been for a LONG time!
It's so true that you can't get published if you're not putting yourself out there, and rejections are a big part of the process. Like I always say, you haven't failed if you're still trying!
What a nice round up. Thanks for the mention. First time authors should keep in mind in regard to rejection.
There's the subjective kind - where writing isn't working for that particular agent or editor in terms of style, topic or theme. Then there's the objective kind - where the writing just isn't working in terms of structure or general craft. This can be fixed.