I get rejections from the New Yorker. When I had to give a…
“I get rejections from the New Yorker. When I had to give a little talk to the people graduating from the MBA program at Columbia who were going into writing and filmmaking and everything, I said, "When I tried to think of what to say, the only subject I thought was appropriate for people doing what you're going to do is rejection." That's what it's all about.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Rejection is a universal experience for creators; acknowledging it openly can demystify fear and foster resilience.
In simple terms: Rejection is common; accept it.
Key Takeaway
Embracing rejection builds creative confidence.
Themes
creativity
failure
resilience
career advice
Mood
reflective
encouraging
Type
personal anecdote
advice
When to use this quote
- writers receiving editorial declines
- filmmakers pitching projects
- students facing academic setbacks
Key Concepts
growth mindset
psychology of rejection
Practical Applications
- reframe rejection as feedback
- share personal stories to normalize failure
Questions to Reflect On
- How does rejection shape artistic identity?
- What strategies turn rejection into improvement?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on rejection may discourage risk‑taking if not balanced with success stories.