We write because we have to. We write because we cannot imagine a world without writing. We also write so that our voice is heard by someone other than ourselves. And, if we are lucky, our voice just might be read by someone other than ourselves. To be published is an added bonus to our craft, but when it comes to getting published, it is not as easy as sending some work out and crossing our fingers.
As an editor, I would like to offer some suggestions of what editors look for in the piles of incoming submissions. First, pay attention to the publication’s guidelines. Each publication has a different set of guidelines that they prefer writers adhere to. For instance, you will want to make note of how many pieces of work to send to the editor. If the publication asks for three to five poems, only send three to five poems. By following this guideline, it demonstrates to the editor(s) that you have done your homework. Also, please include an SASE (self addressed stamped envelope) if it is required (most times it is)—this will ensure that the editor can contact you about the status of your work. Lastly, if an editor asks that you only send submissions that are not simultaneous, please follow this guideline. It can be very frustrating for an editor to fall in love with a poem or piece of writing, only to later find out from the writer it is not publishable because another journal has chosen to publish it. Now, let’s take a look at the cover letter. Yes, you need to include one. Editors are always impressed when you have done your homework and know their names and appropriate titles. Therefore, the cover letter should be addressed to the specific editor of your genre (fiction, non-fiction, poetry). You will want to briefly introduce yourself and how you are familiar with the publication—you might even mention a particular issue or piece of writing in an issue that struck you. However, make sure to keep the cover letter short and sweet. Try not to list everywhere you have already been published—just mention a few places. Also, please do not explicate the work you have sent the editor. The writing must be able to stand on its own without your argument for their publication. Remember, the added bonus to writing is to see our work in print, to have that work out there, living and breathing its own life. And, it just takes a little work to get our words out there for public consumption. Jenny Sadre-Orafai
