Verse & Vision: Interview with Mark Gottlieb, Leading Literary Agent

Welcome back to “Verse & Vision,” the latest installment in our ongoing series, where we explore the multifaceted world of writing and publishing (check out the last instalment in case you missed it).

Today, I am thrilled to introduce you to our latest interview. Mark Owen Gottlieb is the vice president and distinguished literary agent at Trident Media Group, known for securing high-profile deals and representing numerous New York Times bestselling and award-winning authors. With experience in negotiating film and TV adaptations and a background in audiobook management and foreign rights from Penguin Books, Mark is dedicated to expanding his roster of talented writers. A graduate of Emerson College, he was a founding member and president of the Undergraduate Students for Publishing Club and established the Wilde Press. Mark has also lectured at prestigious institutions, including Yale, Cambridge, and Columbia.

What inspired you to become a literary agent?

Mark Gottlieb: “My inspiration to become a literary agent at Trident Media Group stems from my lifelong passion for books and storytelling. Growing up in a family deeply involved in the publishing industry, I was exposed to the world of literature from an early age. This, combined with my experiences at Emerson College and founding the Wilde Press at the college, ignited a desire to help talented writers bring their works to a wider audience. The opportunity to discover new voices, nurture creativity, and shape the literary landscape is what inspired me to pursue this career path.”

If you weren’t an agent, what other career would you pursue?

“If I weren’t a literary agent, I would likely pursue a career as a book editor, or in book-to-film/TV. My experience in negotiating film and TV adaptations has given me a deep appreciation for the art of visual storytelling. I find the process of bringing written works to life on screen fascinating, and I believe my skills in identifying compelling narratives and working with creative professionals would translate well to that field.

“Additionally, my background in audiobook rights management could be valuable in producing engaging audio content for various media platforms, or for considering other forms of rights management.”

Do you find it challenging to balance your busy schedule with your personal life?

“Balancing a busy schedule with personal life can be challenging, but it’s a challenge I embrace. The nature of the publishing industry often requires long hours and constant attention to new developments and industry trends. I’ve learned to prioritize effectively and create boundaries to ensure I maintain a healthy work-life balance between Mark Owen Gottlieb ‘the VP and literary agent’ and Mark Owen Gottlieb ‘the husband and father to my family.’

“I find that staying organized and being disciplined with my time management allows me to give my full attention to both my professional responsibilities and personal commitments.”

What are some of your favourite books and authors?

“As an avid reader, I have many favourite books and authors across various genres. Some of my personal favourites include The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald for its masterful prose and commentary on the American Dream, 1984 by George Orwell for its prescient vision of society, and To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee for its powerful exploration of complex societal issues.

“In contemporary literature, I admire the works of authors like Donna Tartt, Kazuo Ishiguro, and Colson Whitehead for their unique voices and ability to craft compelling narratives. I am also an avid reader of graphic novels.”

What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most?

“The aspect of my job I enjoy the most is discovering and nurturing new talent. There’s an unparalleled excitement in reading a manuscript from an unknown author and recognizing its potential to captivate readers and make a significant impact in the literary world. I find great satisfaction in guiding these authors through the publishing process, helping them refine their work, and ultimately seeing their books reach a wide audience. The collaborative nature of working closely with authors to bring their visions to life is so rewarding.”

How do you relax and unwind?

“To relax and unwind, I often turn to activities that allow me to disconnect from the fast-paced world of publishing. Reading for pleasure, rather than work, remains a favourite pastime. I also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, which provide a refreshing change of scenery and help clear my mind. I find practicing mindfulness and meditation to be effective in managing stress and maintaining a balanced perspective. Spending quality time with family and friends is also important for my relaxation and overall well-being.”

Do you believe there is room for politics or social issues in fiction?

“I firmly believe there is not only room for politics and social issues in fiction but that they often form the backbone of the most impactful and enduring literary works. Fiction has the unique ability to explore complex societal issues through compelling narratives and relatable characters, allowing readers to engage with these topics in a more personal and nuanced way. It’s crucial that these elements are woven organically into the story rather than coming across as heavy-handed or preachy.

“When done well, fiction addressing politics and social issues can spark important conversations and contribute to broader societal discourse.”

What do you see as the biggest challenges in the current publishing landscape?

“In my view, the biggest challenges in the current publishing landscape include the rapidly changing digital environment, the increasing competition for readers’ attention in a content-saturated market, and the need to adapt traditional publishing models to new consumer behaviours. The rise of self-publishing and audiobooks has disrupted traditional publishing routes, requiring the industry to innovate and find new ways to add value.

“The consolidation of major publishing houses and the pressure on independent bookstores pose challenges to maintaining a diverse and vibrant literary ecosystem. AI presents its own set of challenges. Navigating these changes while continuing to champion quality literature and support authors is a significant challenge for agents and publishers alike.”

What qualities do you think are essential for a successful author-agent relationship?

“I believe the essential qualities for a successful author-agent relationship are trust, open communication, and shared vision. Authors need to feel confident that their agent has their best interests at heart and will advocate fiercely on their behalf. Agents, in turn, need to trust in their authors’ talent and dedication to their craft. Clear and honest communication is crucial, especially when discussing sensitive topics like manuscript revisions or contract negotiations.

“A shared vision for the author’s career trajectory and long-term goals helps ensure that both parties are working towards the same objectives. Mutual respect, professionalism, and a willingness to collaborate are also key ingredients in fostering a productive and lasting partnership.”

Do you provide editorial feedback and support before submitting manuscripts to publishers?

“Yes, I do provide editorial feedback and support before submitting manuscripts to publishers. I believe it’s crucial to ensure that a manuscript is in the best possible shape before it reaches an editor’s desk. This process can sometimes involve a few rounds of feedback and revisions, focusing on elements such as plot structure, character development, pacing, and overall marketability. My goal is to help authors refine their work while maintaining their unique voice and vision.

“This collaborative editing process not only improves the manuscript’s chances of acceptance but also demonstrates to publishers that the author is professional and open to constructive feedback. Though I usually provide editorial feedback where the client specifically requests editorial feedback.”

What is your submission process? Do you require a full manuscript?

“My process for receiving submissions typically begins with a query letter. If I’m intrigued by the concept and writing style exhibited in the query letter, I’ll request additional materials. For fiction, I generally prefer to see a completed manuscript before offering representation, as it allows me to assess the author’s ability to sustain the narrative and execute the concept fully.

“For non-fiction, a well-developed proposal and sample chapters are often sufficient. Graphic novels are usually sold based on a full script accompanied by spec art. At the same time, I’m always open to discussing the specifics with potential clients, as each project may have unique requirements.”

Is there a preferred word count when considering manuscripts?

“While there’s no strict word count requirement, I generally look for manuscripts that fall within the standard range for their genre and target audience. For adult fiction, this typically means between 80,000 to 120,000 words, though some books might run a bit longer or shorter. Young adult novels usually range from 50,000 to 80,000 words. For non-fiction, the word count can vary widely depending on the subject matter and approach.

“Ultimately, the quality of the writing and the strength of the story or argument are more important than hitting a specific word count. However, authors should be aware of genre expectations and be prepared to justify significant deviations from the norm. I discuss much of this in a blog post called ‘Word Counts in Books: Why They Matter.’”

How do you prefer to be approached by prospective clients?

“I prefer to be approached by prospective clients through a professional query letter sent via our online submissions form. The query should include a brief introduction, a compelling pitch for the manuscript, relevant author credentials, and any notable publishing history. I appreciate queries that demonstrate the author has done their research on me as a literary agent and the Trident Media Group literary agency, explaining why they believe we would be a good fit for their work.

“While I do attend some writing conferences and literary events where I may meet authors in person, website queries and referrals remain the most efficient way for me to review and respond to submissions.”

What is your typical response time for queries and submissions?

“My typical response time for queries and submissions varies depending on the volume of material I’m reviewing at any given time. Generally, I aim to respond to initial queries as soon as possible. For requested materials, such as full manuscripts or proposals, my response time may extend between a few days or a few weeks. I understand that waiting can be difficult for authors, but I believe in giving each submission the attention it deserves. If an author hasn’t heard back from me within these timeframes, they’re welcome to send a polite follow-up email.“

How do you stay informed about trends and changes in the publishing industry?

“Staying informed about trends and changes in the publishing industry is essential to my role as a literary agent. I regularly attend industry conferences, book fairs, and publishing events to network with colleagues and stay abreast of new developments. I also subscribe to various industry publications and newsletters, follow key figures on social media, and participate in professional organizations.

“Additionally, I maintain close relationships with editors and publishers, which allows me to gain insights into their changing needs and preferences. Constant reading, both of published works and manuscripts, helps me keep a finger on the pulse of evolving literary trends and reader interests.”

What are your thoughts on self-publishing versus traditional publishing?

“Both self-publishing and traditional publishing have their merits, and the best path often depends on the individual author’s goals, the specific project, and target audience. Traditional publishing offers the advantages of professional editing, design, distribution, and marketing support, as well as the prestige associated with established publishing houses, and the reach publishers can achieve. It’s particularly beneficial for authors who want to focus primarily on writing and are seeking wider distribution through bookstores.

“Self-publishing, on the other hand, offers similar creative control and faster time to market. It can be an excellent option for authors with niche audiences or those who enjoy managing all aspects of the publishing process. Ultimately, I believe there’s room for both models in the current market, and some authors successfully pursue hybrid careers, self-publishing some works while traditionally publishing others.”

How do you handle manuscripts that you are interested in but may need significant revisions?

“When I encounter a manuscript that I’m interested in but that needs significant revisions, I typically begin by having an in-depth conversation with the author about the work’s potential and the areas that need improvement. If the author is receptive to feedback and willing to put in the necessary work, I may offer representation with the understanding that we’ll work together on revisions before submitting to publishers. This process often involves providing detailed editorial notes and working closely with the author through multiple drafts.

“It’s important that the author and I share a vision for the final product and that there’s mutual trust in the revision process. In some cases, if the required revisions are too extensive, I might suggest the author revise the manuscript independently and resubmit it for consideration once the changes are made.”

What advice would you give to an author seeking representation for the first time?

“For an author seeking representation for the first time, my advice would be to thoroughly research agents and agencies to find those who are a good fit for their work. Take the time to craft a compelling query letter that clearly communicates your book’s concept, target audience, and your qualifications as an author. Make sure your manuscript is as polished as possible before submitting. Be professional in all your interactions and patient with the process, as it can take time.

“Don’t be discouraged by rejections—they’re a normal part of the journey. Keep writing and improving your craft while you’re querying. Lastly, be open to constructive feedback. A literary agent who offers specific suggestions for improvement is showing interest in your work, even if they don’t offer representation immediately.”

Do U.S. literary agents and publishers typically prefer to work with authors based in the United States?

“While U.S. literary agents and publishers are often more familiar with the U.S. market and may have stronger networks within it, they certainly don’t limit themselves to working only with U.S.-based authors. Many agents and publishers are actively seeking diverse voices and international perspectives. Authors based outside the U.S. should know that they may face some additional challenges, such as navigating different contract laws or tax implications.

“It’s also helpful if international authors have a strong grasp of the U.S. market and can articulate how their work might appeal to American readers. Ultimately, the quality of the writing and the strength of the story are the most important factors, regardless of the author’s location.”

How do you handle situations where you have to decline representation?

“Handling situations where I have to decline representation is always delicate, and I strive to do so with professionalism and respect. I typically send a personalized response explaining my decision, especially if I’ve requested and read a full manuscript. While I can’t always provide detailed feedback due to time constraints, I try to offer brief, constructive comments, when possible, particularly if I see potential in the author’s writing.

“I always aim to be encouraging, even in rejection, recognizing the hard work and vulnerability involved in submitting one’s writing. It’s important to me that authors understand that rejection is not a personal judgment but often a matter of subjective taste or current market conditions.”

Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?

“My advice for aspiring writers is to read widely in your chosen genre and beyond, write regularly to hone your craft and be open to feedback and revision. Join writing groups or workshops to connect with other writers and gain valuable critiques. Study the publishing industry to understand how it works and what literary agents and publishers are looking for. When you’re ready to submit your work, do your research to find agents who represent your genre and follow their submission guidelines carefully.

“Remember that persistence is key. Many successful authors faced numerous rejections before finding representation. Most importantly, write because you love it and have stories that you’re passionate about telling. Your enthusiasm and dedication will shine through in your work and increase your chances of success.”