Publishing Tip: Use rejections to greater your chances of publication.
A Reader question.
Reader Question: If you receive a rejection from a litmag [Ed. note: or literary agent], would you reply asking why they rejected your piece? I just want to know the reason. Perhaps I can improve something or two.
Do not respond right away.
Agents and editors don’t have time.
Instead of asking the mag or agent for feedback, keep a record of who rejected you and how.
If you received a generic-sounding response, that’s a hard “No.”
Submit the next piece on your list to that mag.
Submit the piece in question to five different agents or mags.
In response to a personal note: when you next apply, in the first line of your cover letter remind them of the kind manner of the previous rejection.
PS. The best way to improve your writing is to seek out feedback:
Take a class
Trade with a writing peer.
The reason for the rejection was that on that day, at that moment, was your work did not suit their ephemeral wants or needs. That is all it is. Don’t spend time spelunking the reasons. Instead, research another submission opportunity.