Deciphering rejection: agent/editor, magazine/journal.
The art and gift of "rejectomancy."
This conversation came up about a book manuscript, but the reasoning applies to submissions of short work and poetry, as well.
How should I respond to this rejection from an agent:
"Thank you for the chance to consider (book name). I've gone through the materials and I'm sorry to say, I'll pass. This is subjective and I'm hopeful you'll find the right home for your story. Keep writing!”
The first in our conversation to answer said, “Send them a thank you for their time and consideration to keep your name on their minds and send them your next book.”
I had to disagree. I've heard too many agents say the opposite: unless they give specific feedback or ask to see your next novel or other future work, don't contact them. It's not personal. They are simply too busy.
Publishing is business and they are going about theirs.
Secondly, the above responds is a kind and professional boiler plate rejection and—I must say—much easier to receive than a boiler plate “No” used in the mid-1990s: “In today’s competitive market place, I could not muster up the enthusiasm to represent this project.”
Eventually, I did get to “Yes.”
Each time I received what I call, “Dear Writer: NO,” I put five more submissions into the pipeline. Then I had my feelings.
Other advice offered in our conversation:
Don’t over think it. On to the next one!
Just another 999 more to go!.
Analyzing a rejection letter is called “rejectomancy.” Avoid it. It gets you nowhere and wastes time. If they have anything you need to hear, they know how to get your attention.