Into the Fire

How many times have you heard publishing professionals state they're always looking for "fresh voices" accompanied by ill-defined admittances of "We'll know it when we see it." Inexperienced writers fret over what the heck "voice" is anyway while vexation spreads among experienced writers who aren't convinced these pros are being completely honest in their assertions since the formulaic and predictable novels coming from their publishing houses seem anything but "fresh".

How about the professionals come up with something "fresh" to suggest to writers looking for contracts? Instead of all the platitudes about "the best" writing getting published, the necessity of eliminating adverbs, passive verbs, etc., and writing that startling and unforgettable first line to snare their undivided attention to your manuscript? How about that?

What are your pet peeves about the utterances of publishing professionals? Or do you dare say them in public?

Father, help us to be honest in our pursuits and genuine in our writing. Help us to do what you ask of us and avoid comparing ourselves to others. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.