I write because I have a story to tell. The sad fact that when I'm done, I love my characters so much I want to share them is a separate issue. But whether or not I sell a particular story or book, I love the process of being creative and the joy of meeting and interacting with my fellow writers. That's priceless. Don't you love that part of writing?
So what if you get a rejection? Sometimes there's a nice note scribbled on it, or a request for a full, an invitation to send something else, or a bit of praise that makes you smile. And sometimes, you get--YAY--an acceptance.
So rejections? Bring 'em on. None of this talk of quitting or despair. (You know who you are!) You aren't in this alone.
But if you need a bit of cheer and affirmation, here are some of my favorite sites about rejections. Enjoy!
http://www.inkygirl.com/category/debbie/rejections/
http://www.inkygirl.com/writers-and-rejection-dont-give-up/
http://andyrossagency.wordpress.com/2010/02/13/publisher-rejection-letters-from-plato-to-hitler/
http://www.writerswrite.com/journal/oct98/keegan12.htm
http://nielsenhayden.com/makinglight/archives/004641.html
http://ellenjackson.net/dealing_with_rejection_61476.htm
http://www.redroom.com/blog/andyross/deconstructing-publisher-rejection-letters
Have any other links to share? Let us know and spread the support...
Hang in there everyone!
Martina
No quitting, no way! Awesome post. Receiving these rejections should make us strong, make our next piece even better. Thanks for the great links!
ReplyDeleteI can't remember where I read it, but someone said that each rejection is like a badge of honor. Don't get me wrong, we need to be judicious about where we send our queries and our work--or more agents and houses will close to unsolicited submissions--but I do think that as long as we are getting our work out there, we deserve to pat ourselves on the back and indulge in a little Tom and Jerry reward therapy. And you are dead right, Julie--here's to making the next piece even better!
ReplyDeleteGreat resources, Martina! Rejection happens way too often in this business!!!
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