We've all been there, haven't we? (If you haven't, please do let me in on your secret.) And the words used by the magazine/publisher/agent remind me a bit of estate agent lingo. You have to read between the lines:
Outstanding opportunity for renovation = it's falling down
Wonderful views = there's a tree outside, and you can just see it if you lean out of the attic window
Within easy reach of shops and schools = do you like long walks?
Cosy = it's a dolls' house
Fitted ktichen = there's a sink
The garden is laid to lawn = it's completely overgrown
Extra bedroom/study = but only a bedroom for someone under 4' tall, lying crosways
So (I suspect) it is with written offerings:
Well-worn theme = we just don't like it
Guessable = ditto
Not quite right for us = ditto
No surprises = ditto
We wish you luck in placing this novel/story/poem/article = please go away and leave us alone
Okay, okay. I know you're trying to be nice, but please just tell me I've written a lousy book/story. I can take it. I've got writers' shoulders (ie broad ones).
(And in case any of the wonderful editors etc. I've had dealings with should happen to come across this, I do know that some of these reasons are genuine, and I do love you really. Plus, I've just had a nice acceptance, so I'm not sure why I'm rambling on about rejection...)
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I get pictures rejected....it hurts...I'm a sensitive soul.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on an acceptance.
Thanks, Adrian. Im quite pleased as it's a publication I haven't written for before.
DeleteWriting is subjective; or so I tell myself if I am rejected. Rejections make the acceptances all the more exciting. Well done on your acceptance.
ReplyDeleteGood point, L!
DeleteHa ha - I've had all the top four - most especially numbers one and four. I also know the mag who sent these comments (but I'll let them off as they bought one this week)
ReplyDeleteWell done on your acceptance, Wendy. They are hard to please, as we all know..
DeleteDoesn't really matter what they say, does it. A reject is still bad however nicely it's worded and we'll be happy with an acceptance even if it's jolly rude. (I did actually have a fairly rude acceptance once)
ReplyDeleteRude acceptances? Bring them on. Rude rejections? How DARE they!
DeleteHaving writers' shoulders - I love that!
ReplyDeleteYou wouldn't if you had them, Meike ;(
DeleteForget about the rejection and just concentrate on the acceptance. Congratulations.
ReplyDeleteI try to, Colette. Dont't we all?
DeleteWell done on the acceptance, Frances - so does that mean you've not personally just had a rejection?
ReplyDeleteThanks, Rosemary. As to your question, not sure I want to talk abotu it...
DeleteI've had all of those, Frances - lots of times and a few besides, but I think you're right, they all amount to the same thing.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on the acceptance :-) x
It's a gentle rollercoaster, Teresa, And I've never been good at rollercoasters. They make me sick.
DeleteSome fall on stony ground
ReplyDeleteOf ocurse! Stony ground. I must cling to that thought, Clare.
DeleteI have completely avoided rejection of the sort you mention Frances. It's easy. I never do anything to put myself in that position.
ReplyDelete