You know that feeling of being on a rollercoaster as the car climbs steadily along with your sense of anticipation? And then, after the peak, the sudden drop?
That’s last week for me in writing terms.
A trip back to stay with our sons gave me some space to think, read, and get on with a project. Even my birthday present of a trip to the cinema to see a live production of Macbeth felt like food for my writing soul. On Tuesday I had a satisfying morning finishing a visual poetry piece I’ve been working on for some time and considering its potential for a PhD.
Then I read my emails.
Two rejections from Mslexia magazine. One for their poetry pamphlet (very small collection) competition and the other for their Poet Laureate feature, a response to a news item. I know Mslexia is a big deal. I was aiming high here. But there’s this hope when you enter a competition or submit a piece for publication when you believe it’s good enough to win.
To find that it isn’t feels like that stomach drop of descent on a rollercoaster. I felt disappointed and despite the feedback in the emails, discouraged.
But I’ve decided I need to learn the lesson of how to cope with rejection. So what are my take-homes?
1. Be honest and share:
I don’t want to be part of that social media trope where everyone’s life is perfect. And how else to get support if you don’t ask? On Facebook and Twitter, friends and fellow writers rallied with encouragement and wisdom about using the feedback I’d received. Family gave me hugs and more wisdom, including from my son:
“Just get back on the horse, Mum.”
So I did. My confidence was a little knocked but Mslexia asked for other submissions, where they were short of entries, and I composed a micro piece for their fun Bear Necessities feature.
2. Rejection can be directional:
I have another option. I’d already had interest from another publication for some of the pamphlet poems but had put them on hold. It’s only a regional publication but why not start there? Why not see this rejection as a signpost keeping me on the right road?
3. Build success brick by brick:
I entered the pamphlet competition last year, when I needed a project to give me a focus and it’s served that purpose. But I need to aim for relevant competitions and publications. And as a new writer, perhaps it’s better to go for smaller ones, to gradually build both skills and exposure. To find my audience.
So I’ve started putting together submissions for two more publications, one asking for writers with a Cornish connection, who values visual poetry (like mine), and another whose topic is one I know I have works that fit.
4. Learn from the experience:
Going through this I’ve realised a few things about myself. I need more structure to my week and regular support from other people. I’m more motivated with something external to work towards.
So I’m joining a 10 week novel writing course next week. I’m going to start meeting with some uni friends to give each other regular feedback. I’ve made enquiries about doing some voluntary work here in Looe.
So I’ve had the drop and now I’m building up momentum again. The ride may twisty but I’m still moving forward.