I Am No Longer A Poet I Give Up!!

I have decided I am no longer a poet. I can’t stand rejection this rejection is killing me! In the past few months I have recieved two rejection letters. I am taking a break from writing the rejection is just too much!  I can’t blog anymore I am too emotional right now.

I just can’t take this anymore. I try to have a positive attitude but I just have to accept it  just seems impossible to get another book published. Why do I bother mailing out poetry manuscripts only to get rejected? I wonder are my poems too “gay or too black”? Maybe I should I stop writing any poetry that deals with homosexuality or race issues? Maybe my poems need to be more safe more neutral?

Maybe that’s the problem? Maybe my poems need to be more uplifting and less confessional? Maybe I am the problem? Maybe my poetry just sucks? Maybe I am no good? Maybe that’s it?

Here is a sample of what the editors have said:

One poetry editor says ” dear Orville Lloyd Douglas I’m very sorry to say we are declining your manuscript. There’s a raw emotional quality and directness in these poems that is very appealing. The subject matter is timely and the pieces are well executed. I apologize for keeping your work for so long. As you know we receive many fine manuscripts, and are receiving more all the time, but as we can only publish, at most, four a year, we have to turn down many worthy volumes.”

Another poetry editor says “dear Orville Lloyd Douglas thanks so much for submitting your work. Unfortunately, we’re going to have to say no. We receive many great manuscripts every year and have to be very selective. We did, however enjoy reading your poems. Your writing has a keen intensity in both language and spirit.”

I don’t understand if these editors “like” my poetry why do I continue to receive these rejection letters?  I can’t take this anymore!!! I am giving up!!!

I do not write poetry for money nobody makes money from writing poetry anyway unless you are Margaret Atwood. I just want another poetry book published. I don’t know I don’t think I have the strength anymore to deal with these rejections!