Most writers will agree that the submission process can be a source of frustration and disappointment. It is usually costly on several levels. Writers typically pay for the privilege to submit, and are rarely paid if their work is chosen. The steady stream of rejections– an inevitability for nearly every writer– can play havoc with one’s confidence and motivation. There are times when the process can even seem fraudulent, especially when a journal’s editor never takes action on a submission call, and your hopes for an acceptance evaporate along with your submission fee.
My experience submitting one poem, titled “Ritual of Purity,” to the anthology Stained was a happy exception.
This project was extremely well run. To start with, there was no fee to submit. The editors, Rachel Neve-Midbar (http://rachelnevemidbar.com/) and Jennifer Saunders (https://www.jennifer-saunders.com/), were clear in their submission call about the type of work they were hoping to see. They expertly managed their authors’ expectations about the timeline. This was especially important, since the project took several months. And, they were clear that they would be seeking a publisher for the anthology– in other words, there was no guarantee that the book would be published otherwise.
No fee, a compelling theme, editors with integrity– a writer’s dream! Add to that, Rachel and Jennifer had a charitable intent. 25% of the proceeds of the sale of Stained will be donated to Days for Girls, https://www.daysforgirls.org. Days For Girls works to end period poverty and ensure menstruators have protection products so they can attend school, work, and manage their menstrual health. I found it immensely satisfying to know my work is helping with such a worthy cause.
I hope those of you subscribing to my page promote this anthology through your own purchase of the book, and your effort to share it with your network. Thank you in advance for your support.