"In the past the publishers I've worked with have been extremely generous. And in almost every case, have been people who believed in the work rather than the sales and marketing"

In this quote, Peter Sotos reflects on his experiences with publishers throughout his profession, highlighting the positive relationships he has had with them. By specifying that the publishers he has actually dealt with have actually been "exceptionally generous", Sotos alludes to the level of support and potentially the innovative flexibility he has actually experienced. Kindness here may incorporate not only sponsorship however also the determination to take threats on his tasks, suggesting a level of trust and confidence in his capabilities and vision.

The phrase "believed in the work rather than the sales and marketing" even more highlights a substantial element of these relationships. Sotos implies that these publishers prioritized creative and literary value over industrial success. This sentiment recommends a nurturing of imagination and a dedication to publishing works that the publishers found meaningful, irrespective of their possible profitability. It speaks to a collaboration based on mutual respect and shared values, where the stability of the work is paramount.

For Sotos, this commitment to the work itself over business factors to consider is seemingly crucial. It suggests that he values artistic expression and the effect of his work more than financial gain, a position that resonates with those who see literature and art as tools for much deeper expression and social commentary. By dealing with publishers who share this ethos, Sotos most likely felt empowered to pursue topics and designs that might be considered too specific niche or questionable by others focused solely on the bottom line.

This reflection highlights a more comprehensive discussion within the publishing market about the balance in between art and commerce. Sotos' experience advises us of the importance of having champions who are willing to buy the cultural and intellectual value of literature, beyond just their commercial capacity.