Paula, you were lucky to grow up with that perspective.

I like how you equate success with the steps it actually takes to be successful. There’s where a lot of writers miss the boat — you have to know the market. And it’s not a guarantee, but it sure increases the odds, doesn’t it?

It never bothered me too much. Maybe because when I was younger I knew that my dad, a graphic artist and cartoonist, was saving up rejection slips (when back then were actual papers sent through the mail) thinking he might wallpaper the drywall partition dividing his basement studio from the laundry area. He never did that, but it would have been a fun way to thumb his nose at rejection. (“They sent me free wallpaper!”)

Even when you know a market inside and out, selling articles is always a combination of a great idea, great writing, and perfect timing. I’ve missed the boat because a similar idea was just assigned to another writer, or it was a great idea but didn’t fit in any of the upcoming issues.