Interesting interview. I’m going to crawl into a hole now and stop writing. Just kidding, but . . . her approach sounds incredibly time-consuming, and without any significantly improved prospects for success. For example, if you know a lit mag likes stories that build to a strong conclusion rather than starting strong, that doesn’t mean they will like YOUR story that closes strong. It also seems odd to write an essay or short story based on a lit mag’s preferences. A better approach (and a more genuine kind of writing) is to write the piece the way it feels most natural and right to you. Just write the best piece you can and let the chips fall where they may. All editors are looking for good writing, and they love being surprised. So surprise them with a well-written, creative, imaginative and awe-inspiring piece, and let the rest go.
As to rejections, in real life these will hurt because you have a relationship (or a wish for a closer relationship) with a person. As to rejections in your writing life, these are IMPERSONAL -- but their coded language carries its own message. EX: If the note asks you to please submit again or to "keep us in mind," that's much better than a rejection note that slams the door on your foot by wishing you luck with the piece somewhere else. At any rate, anything that reminds you to work harder at your craft is good medicine, imo.
Interesting interview. I’m going to crawl into a hole now and stop writing. Just kidding, but . . . her approach sounds incredibly time-consuming, and without any significantly improved prospects for success. For example, if you know a lit mag likes stories that build to a strong conclusion rather than starting strong, that doesn’t mean they will like YOUR story that closes strong. It also seems odd to write an essay or short story based on a lit mag’s preferences. A better approach (and a more genuine kind of writing) is to write the piece the way it feels most natural and right to you. Just write the best piece you can and let the chips fall where they may. All editors are looking for good writing, and they love being surprised. So surprise them with a well-written, creative, imaginative and awe-inspiring piece, and let the rest go.
Very interesting to see the link where you can submit to BASS and Best American Essays your work if it was published.
As to rejections, in real life these will hurt because you have a relationship (or a wish for a closer relationship) with a person. As to rejections in your writing life, these are IMPERSONAL -- but their coded language carries its own message. EX: If the note asks you to please submit again or to "keep us in mind," that's much better than a rejection note that slams the door on your foot by wishing you luck with the piece somewhere else. At any rate, anything that reminds you to work harder at your craft is good medicine, imo.
Thank you so much for this. As usual, splendid and useful content.
This sounds super helpful. JotM has been on my radar for awhile so I’m intrigued to hear what she has to say.
I'm just listening to this and it's fantastic! Signing up right away. What a great service.