“if you don't have the money for grad school, NYC-life, or cocaine, those steps come in the form of literary magazines.” -- I’m starting my own lit mag soon and your articles have given me a deep insight into this industry. After careful consideration, I have decided to pay writers with cocaine 👍🏼 thx Ben, great article as always (can I call him Ben?)
When I was at a writing residency, a very successful painter told me that the artists who do the best are the ones who know how to talk about their work. I found that revelatory. It's not just the work itself that matters (if you want shows, grants, awards, etc.), but knowing how to articulate a unique and marketable narrative for it.
I had an interesting day today, one rejection in the morning, another rejection in the early afternoon, and then an acceptance around dinner time... I'm well aware of many reasons writing might be rejected that have little or nothing to do with its quality, many reasons not to take it personally - and also, rejection stings.
I suppose an acceptance might mean the editor really likes the piece, or maybe it fits quite well with the way the issue is shaping up, or approaches the theme in a unique way... or is quirky in a way that meshes nicely with the editor's own quirkiness - but, as I say to my husband, it must mean than at least some people like my work.
Why do I submit to lit mags? I want to share my poems with others, to get them out into the world.
this a comment to compliment Ben’s writing
aww
Totally agree with this: "It means small steps, over and over."
“if you don't have the money for grad school, NYC-life, or cocaine, those steps come in the form of literary magazines.” -- I’m starting my own lit mag soon and your articles have given me a deep insight into this industry. After careful consideration, I have decided to pay writers with cocaine 👍🏼 thx Ben, great article as always (can I call him Ben?)
You absolutely can and please let me know when you're open for submissions...
ofc!
When I was at a writing residency, a very successful painter told me that the artists who do the best are the ones who know how to talk about their work. I found that revelatory. It's not just the work itself that matters (if you want shows, grants, awards, etc.), but knowing how to articulate a unique and marketable narrative for it.
that is very good advice
I had an interesting day today, one rejection in the morning, another rejection in the early afternoon, and then an acceptance around dinner time... I'm well aware of many reasons writing might be rejected that have little or nothing to do with its quality, many reasons not to take it personally - and also, rejection stings.
I suppose an acceptance might mean the editor really likes the piece, or maybe it fits quite well with the way the issue is shaping up, or approaches the theme in a unique way... or is quirky in a way that meshes nicely with the editor's own quirkiness - but, as I say to my husband, it must mean than at least some people like my work.
Why do I submit to lit mags? I want to share my poems with others, to get them out into the world.
It's not always fun...
haha no it isn't but I definitely think that's an excellent reason. I feel the same with my work.
Beautiful 💜
Thank you!
Thank you, I've been stuck thinking maybe I am not ready to submit, but reading this reminds me I just need to get out there and do it.
Absolutely
YES. This is so good and exactly what I needed to read today. Thank you.
Yay, glad I could help