I can't think of any other industry that is quite as incestuous as publishing. If you know somebody who knows somebody you stand a good chance, even if your work is mediocre or below average.

Don't know anybody or how the system works? Might as well save yourself the time and effort of writing and just buy a lottery ticket.

I've got to think that some of the greatest books ever written haven't been by read by more than a few people let alone ever been published.