Hello Lovlies,
I've never really talked much about my querying process, but I was interviewed the other day on here by fellow writer, Beth Fred, which got me thinking. I've been striving toward my goal of getting an agent and published for quite some time on and off. At least since spring of 2009. Wow. Spring of 2009. Granted in between that time I've graduated high school, visited colleges, gone to college, and have managed to get about 4-5 internships under my belt. Now, I'm a second semester junior--probably a senior credit hour-wise by now.
But it is interesting to see where I've ended up since then. Was I really ready to get published at the age of seventeen? Probably not. Was I really ready for all the rejection I faced? At first no. Now, when one comes shooting into my inbox I think, "Pass me a Milano cookie and let's shoot off two more queries." Let's face it, this is a business of thick skin. Build it up and wear it proud. I've made plenty of mistakes--like thinking my work of YA genre fiction was literary HAH. My professors would laugh me out of the room if I EVER mentioned that. Even querying agents with a ridiculously LONG query. Luckily mine is about 3 paragraphs now. Short, sweet, and to the point. In fact, I think I'm a pretty darn good query writer. (Or so I think lol)
My point is we're all going to make mistakes along the way. We're all going to find our moment to shine. The writer's journey is all about finding your place in the literary world. I just have to say--the publishing industry as a whole has been awesome. Am I happy I discovered it? Yes--I don't have the words. To everyone on Twitter, YALitChat, and just about every writer's blog out there. We're here. We're listening to your words. And I for one hope for only the best for all of you.
For those who are always striving. Always pushing forward even after rejection. Don't worry. You'll make it as long as you never give up.
So I raise a glass of apple cider (not yet 21) to my fellow writers who through everything--the hardships and the struggles--are STILL here and still trying. Now, THAT's something to be proud of.
Let's make 2012 our YEAR!
Lotsa love guys,
Liz <3
Cat's Don't Dance's OUR TIME HAS COME says it better than I ever could.
7 comments:
It is something to be proud of. I hope 2012 is your best year yet. :)
Thanks Kelly :) And I hope your book release goes absolutely awesome! :D
Oh yeah, I think we all make mistakes along the way. That's part of the process, and realistically -- who doesn't make mistake while learning the ropes in ANY field?
Good luck with your queries! I know they can be draining, but it seems like you're taking the right attitude and that will get you far!
Thanks Dianne :) It's true. Everyone is learning the ropes--did you see the video? ;) (I <3 Cat's Don't Dance)
Who said kids movies were shallow? They're beyond inspirational in my book lol
Way to stick with it. EVERYTHING takes longer than I want. The waiting game is hard!!
Above all, keep writing. :)
GREAT POST! Thanks so much for it - I love it!
Lots of good luck to you! <3
Aw thanks Karla!! :)
Mary Thank you too! Waiting is SO the hard part ahah!
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