Agents Quote by Diana Wynne Jones
“"Eight Days of Luke" was refused by another confused publisher on the grounds that children shouldn't strike matches. When my agent pointed out that David in the book was twelve years old, the publisher said that he was striking matches to summon the devil, then, and this couldn't be allowed.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Eight Days of Luke by Diana Wynne Jones, 1975
A publisher rejected the book over a misunderstanding about a child striking matches, fearing it implied devil worship.
In simple terms: Publisher misunderstood a scene about a child striking matches.
Key Takeaway
Clarify intent to avoid misinterpretation.
Themes
misunderstanding
publishing
childhood
fantasy
censorship
Mood
anxious
defensive
Type
cautionary
educational
When to use this quote
- author meetings
- editing
- marketing
- parental guidance
- book reviews
Key Concepts
interpretation
authorial intent
cultural context
Questions to Reflect On
- How can authors better communicate sensitive scenes?
- What role should editors play in clarifying intent?
A Different Perspective
Publishers may overreact to perceived controversial content without context.
![“I don't see [ Trainspotting ] as an albatross, I see it more as a calling card. It's got me out to Hollywood, I've got a good agent, I've got a good manager, I'm getting a lot of work out there and doing a lot of stuff - getting a lot of film projects on the go.” quote by Irvine Welsh](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/918/irvine-welsh-843_agents_i-don-t-see-trainspotting-as-an-albatros_7750.jpg)
