Query Letter problems

[Alex]

Don't mention the author who inspired your work (they don't care). Send the query to the specific agent you want to read the work.

[Thom]

Actually, if you mention that one of their clients inspired your work, they might look at it more carefully, since it's clearly the kind of thing they already represent.

[Margaret]

Adding a represented author to your query seems to be an excellent addition to the topic. It shows professional interest in the person to whom you're focusing your query.

[Alexa]

Most literary agents prefer to receive submissions directed to them, not the company in general (of course, this depends on the agent's availability, the submission guidelines, and how they receive the submissions—via personal email, via a general agency email, or through a submission form). It is crucial that you check the submission guidelines of the agent you have your eye on.

That being said, the wording of your query will be very important if you wish to mention the author who inspired you. If you say something like "the manuscript I'm submitting was inspired by 'author name" which you represent", they might be less implied to work with you due to the work being similar to what they already represent. But, mentioning that you are interested in the agent in particular because they represent an author you "look up to" will be an good "personal touch" for the query, which all agents appreciate.

Hope this helps.

[Fyri]

So! You're saying that the author you like is represented by an agent that you don't like, BUT an agent you do like is also at that agency?

This shouldn't be a problem. Likely, the agents are friends, not enemies especially if they're at the same agency—though they may not even know each other, depending on the agency size.

I'm under the impression that this is similar to a comp title—does the inspiration mean that your story will reflect some elements of that author's writing/life/books? Absolutely say so! Say so to all the agents you query, if it helps describe your book! This helps an agent know 1) more about your book 2) how they might sell you book if they like it and 3) that you are well-read/know the market surrounding your book.

In general, I think the only way you're gonna come off as pompous is if you put down another agent or author. Like, don't say "It's inspired by their writing, but better/without all the annoying adverbs" or "It's inspired by their writing, but they're repped by so-and-so, who sucks. That's why I chose you!" or whatever.

Always shine a positive light, for that opens potential for positive lights to reflect back at you.

All in all, I'd say mention the inspiration if it adds to understanding your book. Otherwise, probably leave it out as it would only really matter to their actual agent and is distracting fluff to any other agent. ;)

Oh wow, I also realize I'm coming to this super late. Hope this either helps you or anyone else that may stumble upon this thread!