Rejection/Acceptance - Are you being served?

…and if so, which do you prefer—the hard or soft option?

 

I have two novels in the hands of publishers at the moment. The waiting is the hardest part. When you’re waiting to hear back from publishers—whether it’s for a novel, a poem, an article, an essay or a grocery list—what kind of response do you prefer? Are you one of those people who would rather have an immediate rejection, or are you willing to wait for months on end for a possibly-maybe? One of my novels has been with a publisher for about 6 months now. There are days that go by where I forget it even exists… and other days where I want to send an email to remind them of my existence (something one does not do). I suppose we are all like Bambi’s mother. “Don’t go into the meadow!” and then that inexplicable need to go into the meadow…

 

I’d rather not get shot by the hunter, but I still feel the need to know if the hunter can see me or not. “I’m over here! I’m over here!” –waving frantically, waiting to be shot. “Hello!”

 

How do you like to be served? Rejection is a medicine best served quickly, is it not?

5 Responses to “Rejection/Acceptance - Are you being served?”

  1. I was thinking on these lines a few days back… Maybe this is why we love books and movies so much. There is a resolution at the end of three-five hours

    Whereas in life, most of the time is spent waiting and worrying for something or the other … And now, attention spans have come down to 2 minute ads… Yet life spans stay the same…

  2. Short is usually best. Also quick.

  3. the quicker the better. though the moments of possibility are still sweet, I’d still rather get it over with.

    I’m not a patient person.

    I hope you here something soon!

  4. Hey, Kev, I like my rejections snail mailed, that way I’ll eventually have enough to wallpaper my bathroom walls or wait, I’ve done this, :cough: I have enough to wallpaper my bedroom now.
    hugs,

  5. Possible answers or feedback may not be limited to Yes or No, right? Unless, of course, the publisher is not known to provide a Yes or No with conditions.

    For instance, “We’d love to publish your novella…but only if we can make it into a movie as well.”

    “We don’t currently have room for your collection of short stories right now; but we could make a movie out of it. Would you sell us the rights and we’ll give you a ’story’ credit?”

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