Just had my novel Exit 21 returned from an agent (not, I must add the one I talked about in my 'How long should I wait' thread!)

A feedback note, handwritten on my original submission letter, said:

The texture of the novel isn't full enough to draw me into your world in my view - good luck. Reaction to fiction is very subjective of course.

How should I interpret the 'texture' comment?

Any thoughts?

jumbo

The full translation is as follows: "No thanks."

Best to move on. If you dwell on things you may end up rewriting a novel on the strength of something that could have perhaps just been a phrase off the top of someone's head (for all you know, s/he was transmitting the unconscious critique of the lump of tofu in his mouth onto his literary taste buds).

If you think your novel has 'texture' then it has as much texure as you require.

The fact that it was 'written' suggests that someone at least had a look (that is good).

Move on. Submit to everyone on the planet simultaneously and hope that lightning strikes.

However, if you believe that s/he is 'on to something' then call them on the phone and simply ask. You might find it helpful in a number of ways. They won't bite your head off (maybe just a little chunk of cheek?). But beware of yourself; keep your 'art' separate from your cravings (in this instance): You should know what you wrote better than anyone.

Francis

Thanks for that. Sound advice, methinks.

And welcome to WW!

Regards

jumbo

John, as the agent says, this is a subjective business. This is one person’s opinion. Unless you get lots of similar responses I would put it down to experience and move on.

I think I know what the agent means but, for me, that’s what gives Exit 21 much of its appeal. It’s pared down. Tight. Not a superfluous word. It was the style of E21 that first attracted me to your writing.

Personally, I wouldn’t call this agent… but if you do, let me know what response you get.

Dee
x

Thanks. Dee.

You're a star.

j xx