Publishing question: respond to litmag rejections?

“Perhaps I can improve my work.”

If you receive a rejection from a litmag [Ed. note: or literary agent], would you reply asking why they rejected your piece? If yes, how do you normally reply to it so it sounds polite and not angry at all. I’m afraid that the mag [or agent] might misinterpret my message and take me as impolite. But I just want to know the reason. Perhaps I can improve something or two.

Do not respond right away.

Agents and editors don’t have time.

The best way to improve your writing is to seek out feedback:

• Take a class
• Trade with a writing peer.

Instead of asking the mag or agent for feedback, keep a record of who rejected you and how.

If you received a generic-sounding response, that’s a “No.”

• Submit the next piece on your list to that mag.
• Submit the piece in question to five different agents or mags.

For a personal note, when you next apply, in the first line of your cover letter remind them of the kind manner of the rejection.

PS. The main reason you were rejected was that on that day, at that moment, was your work did not suit their ephemeral wants or needs. That is all it is. Don’t spend time spelunking the reasons. Instead, research another submission opportunity.