The Rejection Letter

(originally posted on 22 Dec 2021)

There is this curious phenomenon I have heard of among writers. It is the Rejection Letter. I've heard much angst over this object. I've heard of some who frame their first one. I now have more understanding of this THING.

The other day I received my first rejection letter from The Magazine for Fantasy & Science Fiction (for Gem Finder), and it was a very notable experience.

First, I experienced WOW, someone read it. Someone who reads things for a living. An EDITOR. Actually THE Editor for F&SF, Sheree Renée Thomas. I felt giddy.

This short email, which stated simply that the story did not work as well as she hoped and that she was going to pass, filled me with electricity. This was it, this was my first foray into being a professional author.

Second, I was encouraged. For one, the email did NOT say "don't contact us again," as I had feared. Instead, Ms. Thomas wished me luck to find the right home for the story and hoped I would keep them in mind for other new stories. ZOWEE. You bet, will do!

While I just have an email rejection letter, I may well print and frame it.

Okay, now back to work on revision so I can send Gem Finder to the next publication on my list.

~Liriel