ZYZZYVA
is a literary journal many writers aspire to be published in. Many are chosen
by ZYZZYVA editors and many others must endure the pangs of a rejection letter.
The
following is a remarkable rejection letter penned by ZYZZYVA founding editor
Howard Junker many years before he retired.
Gentle Writer:
Please forgive me
for returning your work and for not offering comments or suggestions. I would like to say something to make up for
my ungraciousness, but I don’t think a few quick remarks would really
help. The truth is I have so little space, I must return almost
everything—99%--of what’s sent to me, including a lot that interests me and
even some pieces I admire. (Also, I make mistakes; my taste is erratic, my
judgment flawed.)
The important thing
is this: Do not be discouraged by this or any other momentary setback. The road is long; the struggle must go on.
Then, too, the ways
of the Muse are strange. When she does
visit again, I hope you will give her my best regards.
KEEP THE FAITH.
ONWARD!
Yours,
Howard Junker
Editor
 |
| Editor, Howard Junker |
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