Writers' Wednesday: The Subjectivity of Publishing

OK, for all you aspiring and already published authors out there, here's a stark reminder of how subjective the publishing world can be. We already know that one person can love a book while another can hate it. That happens with editors and agents too, all the time. And I've had my share of rejections that eventually led to publications elsewhere. But this just happened in the last 24 hours, so I had to share:

I had sent a work, a novella, out to 2 different editors at 2 different small presses. They each responded within a day of one another.

Editor A: "I am actively looking to build my contemporary list, I really like your voice, and...so I approached this submission with high hopes. Unfortunately, the first chapters feel very generic. It’s become almost a cliché for a contemporary romance to open with a friend encouraging the heartbroken friend to get laid. We’re looking for something fresher.

I’m sure you must be disappointed, but it’s important to have an editor who really loves your story and can be its champion. As you know, the publishing business is very subjective, and I have no doubt that [your story] is exactly what another editor is looking for..."


Editor B: "I shared the pitch with other actively acquiring [editors in our house]. Specially, [Editor C] requested your partial, read it and she emailed me to let you know she'd love to receive the full. In fact, she stated she's keen to read it. I've copied her on my email to you so that you two may start to dialogue. I'm thrilled to give you this news and I wish you much success..."

So there you have it. What one doesn't care for, another craves. Bottom line? Try your best not to be discouraged when one person tells you "no" or "I don't like it" (and actually, this pretty much goes for life in general, not just writing and publishing).

Happy Wednesday!