Abstract: A method for fast multiple file write operations using a deferred conditional a write tape mark command and a deferred conditional tape mark indicator. A data storage and retrieval system comprising a computer useable medium having computer readable program code disposed therein for implementing Applicants' method for fast multiple file write operations. A data management system comprising computer program products embodied as program code stored in one or more memory devices, such as a magnetic disk, a magnetic tape, or another non-volatile memory device, disposed in a host computer and/or a data storage and retrieval system.