Previously I posted about sending rejections saying the market is too tight as a reason for the decline. Let’s take a closer look.
Subjective?
“The market is too tight,” sounds objective, doesn’t it? As in, “There isn’t enough room for your book because no one is buying this type of book.” However, this is one time we can get philosophical and admit this reason for a decline is actually the agent’s truth. It’s not necessarily the truth.
For example, some in publishing have declared Christian fiction dead. Dead, I tell you. As dead as Microsoft Office Assistant. (The animated paperclip, not to be confused with Cortana, who’s not nearly as lively or fun.) However, I can name an array of writers, editors, and agents who are flourishing in this category.
What’s the Agent Really Saying?
The answer is that in that agent’s opinion, the market is too tight. He doesn’t know of any editors, or not enough editors, or not enough editors at major houses offering healthy contracts, to take on your book. The agent has made the decision not to waste your time or his in offering representation. While receiving the rejection stings, the agent who believes the market is too tight for your book is doing you a favor not to send you an agency contract.
Another upside? The next agent you query may say, “I’m so excited about your work! I know four editors ready to buy a book on how Amish Extraterrestrials built the Egyptian Pyramids!”
If that’s you, then you’ve found the perfect fit!
Your turn:
Is the market really too tight? On what topics?
Where do you think the current market should expand?
