Silver Lining

Have you ever wondered about the origin of the saying “every cloud has a silver lining”? The phrase has been traced back to John Milton’s “Comus” (1634) with the line, “Was I deceiv’d, or did a sable cloud turn forth her silver lining on the night?”

Today silver lining is considered a metaphor for optimism, emphasizing the hopeful side of a situation. This metaphor has come to my mind as I await feedback from the publisher on the latest submission for my manuscript. Of course I’m hoping for a positive response that the publisher is interested in publishing the story.

If the response is that the manuscript needs more work I will undoubtedly be disappointed. And yet here’s where the silver lining shines through the cloud. The publisher’s response would include written feedback outlining weaknesses, which in turn would provide me with a valuable opportunity to make necessary improvements, thereby strengthening the story. And when all is said and done, what matters most to me is that I produce the best possible story. So in that regard I would welcome feedback. Here’s hoping for a favourable outcome!