A high-value rejection

Ellis Clover

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Hi all!

I've just received a lit journal pass on a story I've been sending out for a few months, that I've realised over time (without making any significant edits) is a little 'thin' overall. The amazing personalised feedback they've provided has confirmed my vague suspicions AND helped me to pin them down:

[FONT=wf_segoe-ui_normal]'This is very well written. I especially admire how the writer is able to show and intimate without over writing. My only uncertainty pertains to the quality and depth of the characters' problems: can the writer focus a bit more on what exactly the characters' struggles are (besides Alex being a possible alcoholic, and general melancholy)? If we had a better sense of their problems, then the cats' comfort would mean more.'
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How generous is that? I'm feeling quite inspired now![FONT=wf_segoe-ui_normal]


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mccardey

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Well done, you :) And yes, that is wonderfully useful feedback.
 

popmuze

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The best response to my writing was a rejection I got from The New Yorker, where the editor wrote me a single spaced full page letter praising my skill as a writer even while saying the piece I submitted was not right for them. I followed up with several others that didn't make the grade either. But I've kept the letter ever since, even had it laminated.
 

Jamesaritchie

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In stead of spending time telling us or anyone about that rejection, you need to be writing and sending out more stories right now. A rejection like that means your an inch and a half away from selling something.
 

Ellis Clover

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James, you're absolutely right - I've got a couple half-finished that I'm keen to power on with now, plus I'll be tightening up the rejected story and sending it out on another round. A few of my favourite markets will be opening up again in the next few weeks too, which is exciting. Thanks, everyone :)