Meaning: The quote "I became a connoisseur of that nasty thud a manuscript makes when it comes through the letter box" by James Herriot, a renowned writer, captures the essence of the anticipation and excitement that writers experience when awaiting feedback on their work. James Herriot, whose real name was James Alfred Wight, was a British veterinarian and author, best known for his series of semi-autobiographical books, starting with "If Only They Could Talk," which was later adapted into the popular television series "All Creatures Great and Small."

In this quote, Herriot depicts the visceral and almost tangible sensation of receiving a manuscript back in the mail. The term "connoisseur" implies a refined appreciation and understanding of this experience, suggesting that Herriot had become adept at interpreting the significance of the sound of a manuscript landing on his doormat. The use of the word "nasty" to describe the thud adds a sense of rawness and immediacy to the experience, indicating that it was not always a pleasant sound but one that held great importance and meaning for him as a writer.

For writers, the arrival of a manuscript, whether in physical or digital form, symbolizes the culmination of hard work and creativity. It represents the opportunity for validation, critique, and improvement. The sound of the manuscript hitting the letterbox signifies the potential for success, but also the risk of rejection or disappointment. Herriot's choice of words conveys the emotional complexity of this moment, where hope and trepidation intertwine.

The quote also speaks to the tactile nature of the writing process. In an increasingly digital age, where manuscripts are often submitted electronically, the physical act of sending and receiving a manuscript has become less common. However, the sensory experience of holding a printed manuscript, feeling its weight, and hearing the sound it makes upon arrival remains a powerful and evocative part of a writer's journey. Herriot's description serves as a reminder of the tangible, real-world impact that the act of writing and sharing one's work can have.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the vulnerability and uncertainty that writers face when putting their work out into the world. The thud of the manuscript is a moment of truth, signaling the beginning of the next phase in the writer's journey, whether it be the thrill of acceptance by a publisher or the challenge of revising and resubmitting the work. Herriot's use of the word "connoisseur" suggests that he had developed a keen awareness of the nuances of this experience, attuned to the subtle differences in the sound of a manuscript landing on his doorstep and the emotions it evoked.

In conclusion, James Herriot's quote beautifully captures the anticipation, anxiety, and significance of the moment when a writer receives a manuscript back through the letterbox. It serves as a poignant reminder of the emotional and sensory aspects of the writing process, as well as the resilience and determination required to navigate the uncertain terrain of the publishing world.