One of my goals is to get published in Asimov’s Science Fiction Magazine.
I submitted a story last year, and they rejected it. They said:
“We appreciate your taking the time to send it in for our consideration. Although it does not suit the needs of the magazine at this time, we wish you luck with placing it elsewhere.”
I took that story, submitted it elsewhere, and it will be published later this year.
A couple months ago, I submitted another story to Asimov and I found out today it was rejected as well.
This time, they said:
“The story is cute, but I’m afraid it’s not quite right for me. I look forward to your next submission.”
I don’t want to read into it too much, but it sounds like it was close!
While I’m not sure “cute” is the compliment I was going for (but if I’m honest, it’s a fair description), I am encouraged by the last line! I look forward to my next submission too.
I’m going to take this as a step in the right direction.
Rejection is a necessary part of the process, and I look forward to learning from it. But that’s not the only reason I share it.
My goal to be published remains resolute. And I don’t think you will be able to fully appreciate the moment I’m published without hearing the rejections along the way. This is an essential part of storytelling, and life in general.
Do you have any rejection stories?
Joe Graves 