lily-pad
n.— «This is obviously a system that creates not only stunned authors but also “star” editors. These stars whizz from house to house (often at dizzying speeds) trailing a galaxy of authors behind them; often they are able to establish their own imprints on the strength of their reputations. To adopt a more homely metaphor, the smaller pond of Canadian publishing does not allow for such swift hopping from lily-pad to lily- pad, nor does our national psyche respond so well to such a star system.» —“Edited any good books lately?” by Doug Gibson Globe and Mail (Toronto, Canada) June 15, 1985. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
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