Is it getting easier or more difficult for an unpublished writer to get their first book commercially published? We asked nearly 60 literary agents about the outlook for the next generation of authors. Their comments are in quotes.Agents do not envision a great deal of change on the horizon. They are mildly negative about the next 12 to 24 months. When asked the reasons behind their forecast, the most common responses were:Industry Consolidation, Changes Within the Publishing Industry ItselfChanges in Book RetailingPublishers are Becoming More Risk AverseThe PessimistsThe OptimistsThe Impact of the National EconomyIndustry Consolidation, Changes Within the Publishing Industry Itself"Editors no longer rely on their instincts and passions as selection criteria; ...