Personalized rejections

popmuze · Jan 10, 2006

Picking up on a thread I started in the Rejections and Dejections section, why would an editor compose a beautiful three page letter rejecting a manuscript if he/she didn't want to publish it instead of just sending back a form?

How often does this happen? Is there any chance, when in receipt of such a sterling rejection, to turn it around with that editor?

sirensix · Jan 10, 2006

I'm no editor/agent, but as someone who has directed plays, I imagine it's the same principle: You only have so many spots to fill on your client roster or so many books you can put out a year, and you've found several things you like better, for the time being. But you want the writer to feel encouraged, because you can see they have potential.

VeggieChick · Jan 10, 2006

!

I agree. Sometimes it's just not something they feel they can take on, or their list is full. I'd take it as a good sign to keep submitting. Good luck!

Lauri B · Jan 11, 2006

VeggieChick said:
I agree. Sometimes it's just not something they feel they can take on, or their list is full. I'd take it as a good sign to keep submitting. Good luck!

ditto. It's a rejection, so don't go back to the editor with the same manuscript, but know that he or she thinks you have promise. Good luck

dlcharles · Feb 10, 2006

Count yourself fortunate! Most of us don't even rate the formality of a return of our mss. after we included the return postage. It places you in the higher percentile of 'almost ready' authors.

9 more to go until I get the Holy 50

Personalized rejections

popmuze

Last of a Dying Breed

sirensix

Mediocre Sorceress

VeggieChick

Lauri B

I Heart Mac

dlcharles