A good many young writers make the mistake of enclosing a…
“A good many young writers make the mistake of enclosing a stamped, self-addressed envelope, big enough for the manuscript to come back in. This is too much of a temptation to the editor.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Sending a self‑addressed envelope with a manuscript tempts editors to return it, risking rejection.
In simple terms: Self‑addressed envelopes invite rejection.
Key Takeaway
Avoid self‑addressed envelopes.
Themes
publishing
submission
editorial process
professionalism
Mood
practical
cautious
Type
advice
informational
When to use this quote
- submitting manuscripts
- cover letters
- publishing queries
Key Concepts
manuscript etiquette
industry norms
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do authors use self‑addressed envelopes?
- What alternatives exist?
A Different Perspective
Editors may still reject for other reasons.