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I just so desperately wanted to be published in New…

“I just so desperately wanted to be published in New Yorker, and I'd so desperately try to get something in it. But I'd always get nice letters back telling me that Mr. Shawn [William Shawn, the New Yorker's editor from 1952 to 1987] just didn't like this or didn't like that about what I submitted.” quote by Kevin Sessums
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“I just so desperately wanted to be published in New Yorker, and I'd so desperately try to get something in it. But I'd always get nice letters back telling me that Mr. Shawn [William Shawn, the New Yorker's editor from 1952 to 1987] just didn't like this or didn't like that about what I submitted.”

Kevin Sessums

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The author’s relentless pursuit of publication leads to repeated rejections, highlighting the frustration of artistic ambition and gatekeeping.

In simple terms: Desire for publication meets constant rejection.

Key Takeaway

Persist despite setbacks and seek alternative outlets.

Themes

ambition rejection creative struggle gatekeeping perseverance

Mood

determined frustrated reflective

Type

memoir cautionary

When to use this quote

  • writing career
  • submission process
  • creative resilience
  • career planning

Key Concepts

literary publishing authorial perseverance editorial bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you diversify avenues for your work?
  • What lessons do re draw from repeated rejections?
A Different Perspective

The focus on one outlet may limit broader opportunities.

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