on spec

[AltoRose]

Hi everyone,

I'm relatively new here. I'm pretty excited because I just received a response to my very first query letter! The editor returned my letter with a scribbled note saying, "Sounds like something we could use. Willing to show it to us on spec?"

I know what "on spec" means; my question is this: Should I phone or email the editor to let him know that I'll be submitting the piece and when to expect it? (I did mention a time frame in my query letter.) Or should I just write the piece and send it in with a cover letter? This is really exciting for me, and I just want to make sure I do everything correctly.

Thanks!

[mammamaia]

...all material sent to publishers is 'on spec' unless it's been commissioned/assigned in advance, so why would they use that term?...

...you say 'editor'... what publisher did you send the query to?... is this something you haven't written yet?... are you hoping to get an assignment from this publication to write it?... if so, that may explain the 'on spec' thing...

...unless you're a known writer or at least have some track record to show them, most pubs won't buy a pig in a poke from you in advance... so, yes, you'll need to write the article and then see if you can sell it to them... or to others who are likely targets...

...it's good that at least your idea stirred up some interest, but i'm sure you can understand that they'll need to see the quality of the article/story before committing to a purchase...

best of luck to you... love and hugs, maia

[wwwatcher]

Congrats on the nibble AltoRose!

Yes, write it in the time frame you mentioned and let the editor know in your cover letter that he/she asked to see it.
(Unless they directed you otherwise.)

Take Care,
Faye