I’ve been working on Book 2: reading, brainstorming, researching, plotting points, and taking care of my artist self (taking photographs with my film camera, trying different coffee shops). That has been well and good. No problem there.
If I’m to be honest though, I’ve been hesitant in moving full steam ahead with Book 2. Why?
As of yesterday, I’ve received half a dozen rejection emails from various agents.
I had been forewarned that such letters would come. The stats for such farewells to potential partnerships are and have been out there, even for well-known and well-respected writers: Madeleine L’Engle, J. K. Rowling, Louis May Alcott…. The list goes on. Those talented individuals didn’t just receive a rejection letter or two. They were turned down multiple times. Louise May Alcott was even told by an editor, “Stick to your teaching, Miss Alcott. You can’t write.”
Having a sweet drawer, from which I could indulge for every goodbye letter was highly recommended.
Well, today, I picked up my deliciously exquisite “drawer” of treats this morning, from a local chocolatier’s fine chocolate shop: Stargazer Fine Chocolates.
If you’re not local, you can check out the chocolatier’s (Karen’s) exquisite and beautiful creations online.
I chose to enjoy the Mimosa: mandarin orange puree, champagne, and white chocolate ganache.
With that sweetness and….
- my firm resolve that I was and am supposed to share stories of how love and hope exist in spite of a cruel, dark, and difficult world, and
- words from a well-published and wise individual I trust and respect deeply bestowed upon me: “…you have an aura, and you are capable of great things the rest of us cannot do,”
I am marching boldly forward with writing, because that’s what writers do.
(Continue) writing.
Out there somewhere is an agent that is just right for me, one who understands my project and will help me get where I need to go. I only need one.
WAM - Writing and Art in the Making 