By Hook or By Crook (Brian Katcher)

 

As authors, we know that editors, agents, and the public have become jaded when it comes to original stories. How many ways can romance writers rehash meet cute/friends to lovers/enemies to lovers? How many times can sci fi writers crank out another technology fails/turns against us tale? And there's the overused comedy trope of failed hockey player who joins the PGA circuit to pay off his grandmother's debts. 

In order to get an editor's attention, you really have to hit them where they live. Not that you should actually go to their house. I learned my lesson, Mr. Humorless DA. What I'm saying is not only do you have to have an original idea, but it must be one that relates to the reader on a personal level.

I think the Japanese short story 'The Human Chair' by Edogawa Ranpo illustrates this point. It is one of the few pieces I've read about the submission process. In it, an author receives a letter from another aspiring writer who comes up with a very novel way of getting her attention (see the title).

It's worth a read. And if you're looking for a way to really get an editor's attention, well, it's certainly outside the box (and inside the upholstery) thinking!