Challenges Faced by Writers
- Elaine Marie Carnegie
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
REJECTION AND CRITICISM
by Elaine Carnegie
Hopefully, I have overcome the glitch in my software and everyone will get the article this week and on time! Welcome back.
I have had one heck of a time in the last three weeks in the scheduling and publishing of my articles. I think I’ve got it now and hope everyone receives this week’s publication…in full and on time! (If you get it on Wednesday or Thursday, instead of Sunday, please email and let me know.)
So far, we have discussed Formatting, Copyright Law, Imposter Syndrome, Writer’s Block, and Distractions. This week I would like to discuss Rejection and Criticism. Rejection, whether it be from publishers, editors, or readers is hard.
Handling rejection and criticism requires resilience and a positive mindset. Constructive criticism can be beneficial, offering insights for improvement, but it is crucial for writers to discern between constructive feedback and unwarranted negativity, and this week that is what we’re going to talk about.
Even after all these years of writing and publishing, a rejection of a piece I have put my heart and soul into is discouraging. Sometimes it takes me a while to get back to the keyboard!
Writing is a craft that demands creativity, discipline, and resilience. Despite the fulfillment it can bring, we often face problems that can impact our mental and emotional well-being, as well as our productivity.
Among these challenges, rejection, and criticism stand out as particularly disheartening aspects of the writing journey. Learning to deal with rejection and criticism is crucial for us to maintain our passion and continue to grow in our craft.
Rejection and criticism are inevitable parts of a writer's life. Rejection can come from publishers, editors, or readers who do not appreciate or see potential in a piece of writing. Criticism, on the other hand, can vary from constructive feedback to harsh, unwarranted negativity. Both can be difficult to handle, but understanding their role in the writing process can help us view them as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks.
Rejection is a common experience for writers at all levels. Even the most successful authors have faced numerous rejections before achieving recognition. While rejection can be discouraging, it is important to remember that it is often not a reflection of a writer's talent or worth. Many factors can contribute to a piece being rejected, including market trends, editorial preferences, or even the sheer volume of submissions. Accepting rejection as part of the journey can help us develop resilience.
Criticism, particularly constructive criticism, plays a vital role in the development of a writer. Constructive feedback from editors, peers, or readers can provide valuable insights into areas of improvement, helping writers refine their skills and produce better work. However, we must discern between constructive feedback and unwarranted negativity. While constructive criticism aims to help, unwarranted negativity can be damaging if taken to heart.
My worst personal experience was from an agent I queried. I got a call back for the entire manuscript when submitting a query for my novel, “Ms. Sarah.” I was so excited!
The agent sent me back a scathing paragraph that was unwarranted and proved to me that she did not read the submission. She was looking for heat in the romantic bits. I queried the manuscript as a paranormal criminal procedural with romance. Even though I understood why she was upset with me. Neither of us discussed the romance portion and until I got her message, I had no idea that was what she was looking for. It was disheartening and I didn’t deserve it, but sometimes those things happen. We have to learn to look past them.
Dealing with rejection requires a positive mindset and resilience. Maintaining a positive mindset is essential when facing rejection. Dr. Seuss was rejected 27 times before they published his first manuscript! This is an informative article about how famous writers handled rejection. Give it a read!
Persistence is the key. Keep submitting your work to different publishers, magazines, or contests. Each submission is an opportunity to learn and grow. Remember that many successful writers faced numerous rejections before achieving recognition. Embrace the journey, keep writing, and never let rejection or criticism deter you from your passion.
Hope this gave you some insight to better handle your own rejections while understanding you are far from alone! See you next week!
Having been warned about rejections, I was still disheartened to receive my first. Thankfully, I'd published numerous short stories and poetry before my first rejection from 50-word Stories. Yep, it stuck with me. And I never tried to publish with them again (they had accepted my first submission). But after that, I thickened my skin and, although I do feel sad and even might not write for a couple of weeks... or months after a rejection, it no longer devastates me. Thank you for sharing these fantastic articles, my friend. They are wonderfully informative!
I long ago stopped worrying about having my writing rejected since I've become confident that's it's good but just needs to find the right fit. I just tell myself it's their loss, not mine. LOL :-) And move on. Good article, Elaine.
This was a great article, Elaine! There was so much food for thought. I kept nodding along as I read. I totally agree with everything so said. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and insights with us :)
Great Article! Very inspiring and the message here is don't give up! Thanks for the info. It's nice to know your not alone. Everyone experiences rejections at some time.
This is such an honest and helpful look at rejection Elaine. Thanks for sharing your experiences.