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So many writers are posting about querying success and disappointment. I get the excitement, but one of the things you’ll learn quickly in this industry is to keep some things in your pocket and only share with a few others—trusted CPs, mentors, friends.
Why, you say? Isn’t it exciting? Of course. But be careful with those chickens. They haven’t hatched yet. Maybe they will, maybe they won’t. You’ll save yourself from answering hard questions if you keep the news to a select few. Be careful out there. Protect your feelings.
I just wanted to add that, though my journey to pub has not been all that long compared to many others (queried two manuscripts, sold second), I still feel like a baby writer in many ways. So take this as advice from a big sister who doesn’t want to see you get hurt.
And to add, the dangers I’ve seen with this (put in a comment but want to thread)—I’ve been ghosted by an agent who wanted to talk rep (imagine my embarrassment when I told my students and it didn’t pan out), and everyone has been ghosted on partial/full requests at some point...
This can even happen when you send the “offer of rep” email. This is no judgement on agents—things happen that no one can anticipate and if it’s not the right time, it’s just not the right time. Just please be careful with your heart & feelings until you’re on the dotted line.
Esme has great insight here! Part of me says “but we need celebrations more than ever right now”, but the other part says we must still consider the harm we could be doing to our future selves & friends. I still say the best practice is to share with your few closest buddies.
https://twitter.com/esmesymessmith/status/1291716837969887234
https://twitter.com/esmesymessmith/status/1291716837969887234
