When I signed up for this writing gig, almost eight years ago (and by signed up, I refer to a conversation with myself saying, ‘I WILL be a writer!’), I was determined to be in it for the long haul. I’d spent my life dabbling in creative pursuits; music, performance, writing, but this time, this conversation, I committed to making it ‘what I do’. And since then, I’m pretty proud of the journey I’ve taken.
It ain’t always sunshine and roses though, and I’m sure many of us will agree. For every promising moment, there are three let downs, for every achievement, there’s a couple of failures, and for every encouraging word, there are one or two negative Moriartys.
In addition to my indie publishing work, I also submit regularly to traditional publishers, and have been doing so for five years. Rejection slips have become the norm, and I’m no longer bewildered by them. I know how difficult it is to get your manuscript beyond the slush pile, or through the publisher’s email vortex.
In recent months, one of my stories finally made it beyond the first step, with a publisher I adore. It was to be presented at an acquisitions meeting. I was creeping closer to the goal of becoming a traditionally published author. Such heightened emotion and anticipation! I had the hypothetical contract-announcement prepared, the launch ideas floating, even how I would promote the book and share it with the world. Ah! They say ignorance is bliss, yes?
Although it was a loved story, it didn’t make it over the line during the acquisitions meeting. That’s all folks. Bye, bye. See ya later. This rejection was more heartbreaking than any email slip received or self-addressed envelope popped kindly into my mailbox by the postie. It was a sick-in-the-guts feeling. A, ‘but I was SO close!’ reaction. A, ‘What the bleep am I going to do now?!’ paranoia.
I am incredibly grateful that this publisher saw promise in my story, and took the risk sharing it with the team, but it wasn’t to be.
I turned to colleagues for moral support, and a place to share my heartbreak.
And that’s where I realised why I do this. Why I’m in the writing game.
Messages of support flooded in. Encouraging, kind, comforting words. Shared experiences. Heartbreaking experiences. Everyone rallied together and it felt like a gigantic virtual hug around us all. There was a three-hour chat and catch up with a treasured colleague and friend, and a wonderful opportunity offered by my gorgeous friend and editor. Promise, hope and the ability to see beyond the crush of rejection, towards the next step.
We all will be knocked down on this journey, but we will get back up because we have each other. When you share the travel, it makes the ups and downs a lot easier to bear.
Thank you to this wonderful community. So privileged to be part.
End note: If you’re in this writing gig for the long haul too, I encourage you to seek a supportive, like-minded group or network. Two that I am part of, and find invaluable for not only professional, but emotional support, are Just Write For Kids and The Duck Pond. Share Your Story and Creative Kids Tales are fabulous, too.
By Renee Price.
10 thoughts to “We Get Knocked Down, But We Get Up Again”
A great article Renee, and one that many can identify with. I must say, you are correct about the supportive nature of the Kidlit community. For a long time prior to writing, I worked in another industry and, well, unpleasantness abound. When I got pregnant with my second child, my boss tried to get rid of me and then followed a two-year legal battle just for my rights. It was so unpleasant and although I ‘won’, it really took it out of me. I too would like to get that contract but I can honestly say I feel joy when I read a post where someone else is sharing their excitement about their contract. And I also lend my heart-felt support for those not yet successful. And it can be seen, that all of those messages from all participants are genuine, and you do not find that everywhere, it is special.
Thanks so much for your comment, Anne. It can be difficult to learn to trust again after awful situations such as yours in your previous role. I remember when I started my writing journey, thinking, ‘this is too good to be true. How can everyone be so friendly and supportive?’ but it is the nature of our work and yes, you’re right, it is genuine. So happy I’m able to be part of this wonderful community. x.
Oh I hear you sister. It’s such a hard gig that we subscribe to but as you said, consistency, persistence and a never say never attitude are among our best tools for achieving success. Keep on hammering away, Renee!
Thanks so much, Dim! Right back at ya, sister. You’re a champion. x
PS, this was / is the hubster’s and mines wedding song. Just saying. 😛 xx
That is brilliant! Haha! LOVE that song <3 xo
Fantastic and brave piece Renee. That’s type of resilience is what we all need. We’re all in this together.
Josh! Thank you so much. We sure are, and I’m so reassured by that – I think we all are. Loving your reflections and wise words over on your author FB page – nodding my head along, and feeling the feels with all your posts. Thank you.
Renee I love your honesty in this piece and know that we can all relate. I hope you are back on the ‘up and up’ especially after KildLitVic 2018 and inspired to keep climbing the hill. It was wonderful to meet you ever so briefly in person on Friday.
Thank you, Penelope! It certainly is, and I’m feeling that even more after the wonders of the weekend. I hope you came away feeling super-inspired. It was so lovely to meet you in person. xx