Meaning: The quote by Eric Brown, a renowned writer, sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that aspiring writers face when trying to break into the market for short stories. Brown emphasizes that while the market for short stories may be difficult to penetrate, magazine editors are often open to featuring the works of new and unknown writers, provided that the quality of the stories is exceptional. This quote encapsulates the complex and competitive nature of the short story market, while also offering hope and encouragement to emerging writers.

Breaking into the market for short stories can indeed be a daunting task for many writers. The competition is fierce, and established authors often dominate the landscape with their well-known names and established reputations. As a result, it can be challenging for new writers to gain recognition and secure opportunities to have their work published. Additionally, the limited space available in magazines and literary journals further intensifies the competition, making it even more difficult for emerging writers to find a platform for their stories.

However, despite the inherent difficulties, Eric Brown's quote suggests that there is still room for new voices in the industry. Magazine editors, who are responsible for curating and selecting content for their publications, are not solely focused on featuring stories by established and renowned authors. Instead, they are on the lookout for compelling and well-crafted stories, regardless of the author's level of fame or experience. This presents an opportunity for aspiring writers to showcase their talent and creativity, as long as they are able to produce stories that captivate and resonate with readers.

Brown's assertion that magazine editors are "more willing to try stories by newcomers, if those tales are good" underscores the importance of quality and merit in the selection process. While a well-known author may have a built-in readership and a recognizable brand, ultimately, it is the strength of the story itself that holds the greatest sway in the editorial decision-making process. This sentiment serves as a reminder to emerging writers that the key to success lies in honing their craft and producing stories that are not only original and engaging but also technically proficient.

Moreover, the quote implies that talent and creativity are not limited to established writers and that there is potential for fresh and innovative storytelling from new voices. This idea challenges the notion that success in the short story market is exclusively reserved for those with preexisting acclaim, and it encourages emerging writers to persist in their pursuit of publication opportunities. It also underscores the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of rejection, as breaking into the market may require multiple attempts and iterations before achieving success.

In conclusion, Eric Brown's quote encapsulates the dual nature of the market for short stories – challenging to penetrate yet open to new talents. It serves as a source of encouragement for aspiring writers, reminding them that while the competition may be fierce, there are opportunities for their work to be recognized and embraced by magazine editors. Ultimately, the quote highlights the significance of crafting exceptional stories as the pathway to overcoming the barriers of entry and establishing a presence in the competitive world of short fiction.