An Invitation to Appear on Pop-Up Submissions

[AgentPete]

As you know, I like to have two guests with me on Pop-Up Submissions – one published writer or other person from the publishing business, and a Colony member too.

People have sometimes wondered why I’m keen to have (often) unpublished writers on the show. It’s really an attempt to break down the psychological barrier that exists between published/unpublished writers. To the unpublished writer, the publishing edifice often seems daunting and unapproachable. However, from the other side of the desk, what publishers spend a large amount of effort doing (particularly when acquiring) is to guess (or second-guess!) what the reading public will feel like buying in 12 – 18 months time. The gap between the two poles isn’t nearly as large as many might think.

So to kick the year off, I’d like to invite Litopians to consider putting their names down (below) to join me on the show. You will enjoy it more than you think And looking at submissions from my side of the desk will be quite eye-opening!

Technically, if you can make Skype calls OK, then you’re probably fine. Please try to use a wired connection, not wifi as the speed can be hugely unpredictable.

 

[RK Wallis]

I would but ... you know!!

 

[KateESal]

I'm tempted, but a combination of young children and an unpredictable internet connection mean I'm more likely to make my contribution via the chat room.... Hoping some other Litopians have a go!

 

[Rich.]

For the time being I'm in the same position at @KateESal, which is a pity because I'd be happy to give it a go. One day!

 

[Dean Baxter]

I'm tempted, but a combination of young children and an unpredictable internet connection mean I'm more likely to make my contribution via the chat room.... Hoping some other Litopians have a go!

I too am tempted, but have similar problems with broadband in darkest Cornwall. No kids in my house, but we do have an excitable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who would love to get involved. I could persuade his mother to take him on an extra-long walk. I've never used Skype, but I'll do some tests and see how it goes.

 

[Barbara]

My broadband is fine. It's me that's too slow. I'm a slow reader. As for the speed of my decision making, well, I can't make my mind up about that one. So, I would put my hand up but can't analyse text this fast.

 

[Eva Ulian]

As @RK Capps I too would... but you know

 

[Eva Ulian]

It’s really an attempt to break down the psychological barrier that exists between published/unpublished writers.

I didn't know this was the reason, and I think it's remarkable that you do it.

 

[Andy D]

I’d be happy to help if needed. Sure it would be fun and certainly interesting to see submissions from the other side. A somewhat daunting privilege I expect!

 

[RK Wallis]

If you can, give it a go @Dean Baxter and @Andy D, it'd be great to see you on Pop Ups

 

[Steve C]

I am tempted but two things hold me back. I normally have high-speed internet but the rainy season starts soon when we are plagued by power cuts that always happen at the worst moment. The other is, I don't feel capable of giving incisive/fair comment as fast as it is required. Might be tempted later in the year.

 

[Jeremy Barron]

Probably almost certainly happy to if needed.

 

[georginaK]

I’m interested in doing it! Need to check my skype connection too—our internet can be a bit dodgy sometimes, but I can do wired