Submitting to literary magazines and small presses
From: thomas.reed@[removed].org
Date: 14 Nov 1990
Simultaneous submissions are generally frowned upon for magazines. Check guidelines. Always include SASE.
From: barbara.sullivan@[removed].com
Date: 01 May 1991
I keep a submission log. It has saved me from sending the same story twice to the same place.
From: jane.miller@[removed].com
Date: 14 Jun 1991
Magazine credits help when querying for a book. Start with the smaller journals and work up.
From: thomas.reed@[removed].org
Date: 17 Jan 1992
Cover letters should be short. Title, word count, brief bio if relevant. The story stands or falls on its own.
From: kevin.ross@[removed].net
Date: 17 Mar 1992
Do you ever hear back if they don't take it? I sent three stories six months ago and nothing.
From: barbara.sullivan@[removed].com
Date: 25 Mar 1992
Many places say "no response means no." It saves them postage. Include SASE if you want it back.
From: thomas.reed@[removed].org
Date: 23 May 1992
We try to respond within three months. If it's taking longer, a polite postcard is acceptable. Don't call.
From: kevin.ross@[removed].net
Date: 30 Jul 1992
I finally got an acceptance! Small journal, no pay, but it feels good. Thanks for the advice here over the months.
From: jane.miller@[removed].com
Date: 15 Sep 1992
Congratulations. One credit leads to the next. Keep sending work out while you wait.
From: barbara.sullivan@[removed].com
Date: 26 May 1993
I now have four magazine credits. The queries for my novel are finally getting more personal replies.
From: thomas.reed@[removed].org
Date: 07 Jun 1993
We are always looking for strong new voices. Keep the standards high and the presentation professional.
From: kevin.ross@[removed].net
Date: 25 Jun 1993
This list has been incredibly useful. I have learned more here than in most workshops. Thank you.