I realize it's just part of the process, but one can't help but be initially discouraged at this point. It's been more than three years, and it feels like I'm back to square one.
But I suppose I shouldn't complain. There have been quite a few positives along the way, and I've made it further than some. After all, on the basis of the first few chapters, the book won the PEN New England Discovery Award, I landed an agent, and have received feedback from some major publishing houses. I should be grateful that the manuscript actually got through the door and on some editors' desks.
I could just blame the lousy marketplace. Bad economy. Far too many obstacles in the way...but that isn't it at all. There's always room for improvement, and I just need to roll up my sleeves and make the book better. My agent has offered her assistance, and I gladly accept the work ahead.
Another consistent positive is that the editors have all acknowledged that they like the writing and that the book is something they haven't seen before. That's refreshing, I suppose. Glad I left out the vampires. Then again, maybe I should have included a few blood suckers. Probably would've landed me some movie rights by now.
Who the hell knows.
Posts
I came to thank you for the follow. And then I read your post.
ReplyDeleteDiscouragement is part of the game. And as you say, you have an agent. And have had positive feedback.
And you are NOT back to square one. Maybe square 101. Just revise and rethink. It won't be as long this time. And as you say your book won the PEN.
So relish that and take solace in it. I will start querying agents in a couple of weeks. I understand the heartache, the misery, the anticipation. But you WILL prevail! =)
...and Joey, don't forget the "politics" of such endeavors. The "Good 'Ol Boy Network" is poisonous, and when you do reach your goal you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you did it without kissing somebody's tail, without selling your soul at the crossroads, and by doing it on YOUR terms.
ReplyDeleteForward, my brother, forward.
Johnnie
Books and magazines on writing are filled with tales of best-selling authors who fought their way through 50-60 rejections before landing their first deal. Though I'm well behind you experience-wise (having yet to finish even the first draft of my first novel), from what I've read, personalized feedback from publishers means you're getting close. Just stick it out. Keep writing, rewriting, and resubmitting, and soon enough The Mist will be out there for the world to see.
ReplyDeleteAnd then you can help guide me through the rejection process.