I just received my first rejection for Walks-with-Two-Spirits.
Was I expecting said rejection?
No.
Do I understand why it was rejected?
Yes.
Furthermore, said rejection was a gift as the publisher took the time to provide honest commentary. While he et al shall remain nameless, I want him et al to know that I appreciate their time and effort.
While waiting to hear back, I read and re-read the novel. Noticed several gaps. Noticed other stuff that I won’t list here. I also sent it to a few beta readers. A few of these beta readers actually read it and provided additional commentary.
Yet another valuable gift.
So what am I feeling now?
Inspired. . .
- To address those gaps I noticed, but didn’t fill.
- To provide additional layers that add, rather than detract from, the story.
- To add spackling paste, putty, and a bit of poured cement to fill those holes.
- To reroute the electric and plumbing.
- To bring in a team of experts to make sure the foundation is sound.
After all of the above, I know Walks-With-Two-Spirits will attain an entirely new level! Writing is, after all, about revision and re-envisioning.
Once upon a time when I only had a few publishing credits, an oh-so-very-wise mentor of mine said that every rejection was a learning experience, and that it would bring me closer to an acceptance. Not only do I know this to be true, but I have also shared this bit of wisdom with other writers, some of whom I have personally encouraged to take their poem, short story, novel or article to a new level.
And yes, some of whose work I have rejected as well.
As said publisher reminded me, “this is just the opinion of one person. . .” I have said the same to other writers.
The further you progress as a writer, know this – that you can – and will – create a circle of people whose opinion you respect and value. Listen to them, as chances are, they are spot on!
So, I will revisit Walks-With-Two-Spirits and imagine that someone else wrote it, and that I am their dedicated editor who wants them – and their novel – to be the best that they can be.
While I am engaged in said revision, if there’s anyone out there who would like to be a beta reader, please let me know. Meanwhile, I will reign in that Muse of mine, who has been hanging out at the Boortean Embassy’s Star Gazer Cafe drinking way-too-many Black Holes and consuming their weight (and beyond, since we’re being honest) in Asteroidal Chews!
Terrie Leigh Relf: Author, Workshop Facilitator & Writing Coach 