In this episode of the Write, Publish, and Shine podcast, I share valuable insights from my 14-year journey at Room Magazine. I emphasize the importance of building relationships with literary magazines and choosing the right publications for your work. I discuss the power of vulnerability in writing, encourage persistence in submissions, and offer tips for connecting with literary communities that resonate with your voice. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, this episode provides essential guidance for navigating the world of literary magazine submissions.
#104 Write, Publish, Shine Episode Transcript
Welcome back to the second episode of my ten-part series on lessons from my journey at Room Magazine. In our first episode, we explored how themed submission calls can spark motivation and inspire your writing. Today, I’m excited to share the second lesson I’ve learned during my fourteen years on the editorial collective.
It’s been a privilege to work with talented writers and witness the evolution of Room, now in its 47th volume. Each month, I’m inspired by the beautiful submissions that reveal the magic of language and shared experiences. As the lead editor, I’ve had the joy of helping writers polish their work for print.
I want to share a personal experience that profoundly shaped my understanding of vulnerability in writing. The first issue I edited came during a time of devastating personal loss. I struggled to find my voice, feeling creatively frozen. I often remembered Anaïs Nin’s quote, “We write to taste life twice,” but I hesitated to revisit that pain.
Yet, I felt a deep yearning to connect with writing and other writers. This led me to call for a themed issue on Mythologies of Loss, which became my way of asking, “Do you know what I mean?”—a way to hold up my experience and make sense of it. The response was incredible, reinforcing my belief in the power of connection through writing.
Remember, the magic of writing lives within you, too. Your voice matters, and your words can inspire change. When you choose where to submit, consider the trust you have with that community. Many contributors choose Room because they know we value and respect their writing.
When dealing with vulnerable pieces, be thoughtful about where you submit. Annette C. Boehm, who contributed to our “Ghosts” issue, said, “This very personal poem shou