I have received several rejections from agents. They have all said that they can't give reasons; but they also recommend that I send the submission to other agents who may have a different take on it. Is this just politeness or genuine advice? There are more agents I have submitted to who say they will answer only if they are considering representation. I think these are the worst kind because their silence subjects the writer to both hope, despair and uncertainty. I recommend ALL agents should send rejection messages even by way of form letters. What do others think?
Also the fact that the rejectionists don't give a hint on their reasons subjects me to thinking that I should revise the manuscript. But I think this would be a mistake. I should hand on to the manuscript in its present form, as long as I'm satisfied with it; until an friendly agent comes up with real commentary.
And here is another rejection.
Dear Louis,
Thank you so much for sending me your work. However, having considered it carefully, I’m sorry to say that I don’t feel it’s right for my list.
I’m sure you’ll understand that the extremely high volume of submissions I receive means that unfortunately I’m not able to give more detailed feedback.
I wish you the best of luck with other agents.
---------
All other rejections are along the same lines as these two.
Thanks, Adrian. Here is one such rejection unedited:
Dear Louis
Thank you so much for sending me your novel and many apologies for the delay in getting back to you.
I've now had a chance to look at your work, alongside our reader, and though there is much to admire I’m afraid it’s not quite right for me. I have to absolutely love a new project before taking it on and I didn't feel strongly enough in this case.
I'm sorry not to be able to give you editorial feedback but I would recommend that you submit your work to other agents and I very much hope you find representation.
With good wishes,
Signed.
Please post examples of rejection letters. I would like to see what one looks like. Then I might be able to comment.