LaDonna, this is a great piece. You're doing more than you realize by simply and honestly sharing your experience. You are reaching people on this platform who will be your readers on paper when you get there, which you will. I think getting published, like many other aspects of our lives, is serendipitous. Like someone said earlier "keep on keeping on" and do it your way. ❤️
I love this. It speaks to everyone who feels like they are bashing their head against the same solid wall, not realizing that there could be another way around! Here’s to finding that way.
"The choices I made in my early adult years were choices of survival, not opportunity." Same. But past just my early adult years. Really my first four decades. At this point, I'm just grateful I survived, because it was not a given.
This piece was so spot-on, so resonant. I too endured an onslaught of Nos, followed by the same kind, supportive words from friends, and it's both disheartening and deflating. This piece alone demonstrates your gift with words, your ability to be at once vulnerable and open and hilarious and badass, all with a flick of your magical pen. Yes, keep going. And yes, no matter what, you matter.
It's a cool but sunny day in Porto today, generating some lovely warmth which I'm pushing your way. Keep on keepin' on, you've got a lot to say and you know how to say it.
And don’t you just hate the rejections laced with suggestions that they are being put upon because you have asked them to take time out of their busy schedule to review your proposal!
I’m usually happy taking time out of my busy schedule to read your posts because I’m often on the same page.
For years and years I have been saying that I've not had more success in the lit world because "I am bad at promoting myself." What I really meant was I didn't have the time or energy to give the business of selling myself a solid try. I'm doing it now and hoo-boy, it's a hellscape.
Great essay on what it’s like to be in the thick of it. I am not there yet, not sending stuff out to generate the “no” yet, but I understand one hundred percent. Thank you for this.
...a chip on your shoulder. I'm glad yours is a microchip. Mine is growing into a debilitating boulder. Maybe I'll start writing here just to get all the angst out. grrrrr
Having no idea how the business works, is it generally true that being physically near publishers makes a difference in 2025? Is the business still that old school?
Robyn struggles in a similar way with her photography. She just wants to create art but more of her time is spent managing the particulars of a business that she has zero interest in.
I've been told by multiple literary agents that I need to be very clear that even though I'm living in Portugal, I'm willing to travel "as needed" to promote a book or show up for meetings in New York with an agent or publisher, etc. These days, publishers put a lot of pressure on authors to sell their own books--go on a book tour, take speaking engagements, participate in interviews, etc. That is really where living an ocean away puts me at a disadvantage, from a certain point of view.
LaDonna, this is a great piece. You're doing more than you realize by simply and honestly sharing your experience. You are reaching people on this platform who will be your readers on paper when you get there, which you will. I think getting published, like many other aspects of our lives, is serendipitous. Like someone said earlier "keep on keeping on" and do it your way. ❤️
Thanks so much, Tamara.
I love this. It speaks to everyone who feels like they are bashing their head against the same solid wall, not realizing that there could be another way around! Here’s to finding that way.
Validation. Totally empathize. So much to choose from on Substack and I always read your writing. I am going to read your book when it comes out.
Thank you Alice. That means a great deal. ❤️
"The choices I made in my early adult years were choices of survival, not opportunity." Same. But past just my early adult years. Really my first four decades. At this point, I'm just grateful I survived, because it was not a given.
This piece was so spot-on, so resonant. I too endured an onslaught of Nos, followed by the same kind, supportive words from friends, and it's both disheartening and deflating. This piece alone demonstrates your gift with words, your ability to be at once vulnerable and open and hilarious and badass, all with a flick of your magical pen. Yes, keep going. And yes, no matter what, you matter.
Thanks, Elisse. ❤️
It's a cool but sunny day in Porto today, generating some lovely warmth which I'm pushing your way. Keep on keepin' on, you've got a lot to say and you know how to say it.
for what it is worth...I support you 100%. If i had a magic wand, or a name, I would wave it and give it to you.
Please don't stop, that's me being selfish ;-)
Thanks, Glen. You're very kind.
And don’t you just hate the rejections laced with suggestions that they are being put upon because you have asked them to take time out of their busy schedule to review your proposal!
I’m usually happy taking time out of my busy schedule to read your posts because I’m often on the same page.
"I know who I am and I know the magic I can conjure." Brilliant! My new mantra!
I look forward to the time when you get that Yes, your book(s) get published, and I can read it(them). I'm in your corner cheering you on.
Thanks Julie!!
Wait a second, this means introverts who are naturally drawn to writing have to become extroverts to sell them?
I do not like this ugly development.
Totes. And same.
For years and years I have been saying that I've not had more success in the lit world because "I am bad at promoting myself." What I really meant was I didn't have the time or energy to give the business of selling myself a solid try. I'm doing it now and hoo-boy, it's a hellscape.
I applaud your bravery for trying and putting yourself out there. Your writing will reach the right address!
Great essay on what it’s like to be in the thick of it. I am not there yet, not sending stuff out to generate the “no” yet, but I understand one hundred percent. Thank you for this.
...a chip on your shoulder. I'm glad yours is a microchip. Mine is growing into a debilitating boulder. Maybe I'll start writing here just to get all the angst out. grrrrr
Why don't you self-publish? Lots of authors do and get lots of recognition. We can't all be Elizabeth Gilbert.
Having no idea how the business works, is it generally true that being physically near publishers makes a difference in 2025? Is the business still that old school?
Robyn struggles in a similar way with her photography. She just wants to create art but more of her time is spent managing the particulars of a business that she has zero interest in.
I've been told by multiple literary agents that I need to be very clear that even though I'm living in Portugal, I'm willing to travel "as needed" to promote a book or show up for meetings in New York with an agent or publisher, etc. These days, publishers put a lot of pressure on authors to sell their own books--go on a book tour, take speaking engagements, participate in interviews, etc. That is really where living an ocean away puts me at a disadvantage, from a certain point of view.
Don’t they know your book is so good it will sell itself?!
Riiiiiight?!