Forsaken Words

on everyday rejection

disorienting feedback
echoes of origin
t  h  e    i  t  e  r  a  t  i  o  n    l  o  o  p

I killed my firstself in bettering
what lifetime is this?

399 no's before
1,500 rejections met with applause

I am siphoned failure
a slow drip of wanting

when will the work be done?
when will the body be accepted?

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I went to a conference this weekend at The Writer’s Center in Bethesda , MD. It was my first time in a space like that, and I felt grateful to be in the room(s) where it happens. The realm of writing, like many other realms, contains gatekeepers. This Publish Now conference was an entryway into more prestigious circles. As they say, knowledge is power.

Before things kicked off with bios or panel discussions or audience questions, a representative welcomed everyone in. He introduced himself stating he had recently received his 1,500th rejection letter. His declaration was met with blaring applause, an early indicator that the road to publishing is not for the weary. This sentiment was echoed throughout the entirety of the day. Failure is a part of success.

To combat endemic gatekeeping, here are some key takeaways…

My favorite quote from the day: “I became indignant when the world didn’t want me.” - Brandon Johnson

1. Publishing is an industry primarily moved by numbers. Like all systems, it is rigid and regimented. #playthegame

2. Do your due diligence. Know your target audience. Read and research publishing houses to be familiar with what they print.

3. Writing and publishing do not happen overnight. It takes time and many many many rounds of edits. Be patient.

4. Everyone has different metrics of success. Know your why before pursuing a specific avenue of publishing.

5. Don’t take rejection personal. Persistence is KEY

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