Goals for the new year: Editor's Notes, January 2003
Published: December 3, 2002
The new year finds us taking stock of our lives and thinking about the future. Along those lines, The Writer staff recently went on a retreat to discuss ways to make the magazine even more useful to writers. Using the results of our online survey, we let you, the readers, be our guides. We thank all of you who took the time to answer the detailed questionnaire about the magazine's contents. It was gratifying to learn that you think we are doing a great job, but we also picked up on some areas where you'd like to see more coverage.
Many of you asked for more information from publishing insiders. With that in mind, we introduce an ongoing series of nuts-and-bolts articles from or about agents, editors and publishers. The series is featured in our Writers Wanted section. We figure that the more you know about how publishing works behind the scenes, the better your chances are of getting into print. The first article is a report on children's publishing by Connie Epstein, a longtime children's-book editor.
The additional coverage reflects our continuing commitment to bringing you the best articles about the craft and business of writing. We aim to give you the tools you need to make 2003 your best writing year ever.
Perhaps you, too, are considering your objectives for the year. Getting into the right frame of mind can make a big difference, says Katherine Hauswirth in "The psychology of productivity." It's amazing how many writers booby-trap their dreams with unrealistic goals and negative thoughts. She shows you how to think positively and boost your output. You'll find more good advice on the craft of writing from Ray Bradbury and Susan Elizabeth Phillips.
In this issue, we also proudly announce the winners of The Writer Awards, honoring writers who, through their writing activities, have made a difference in the writing community. We received more than 300 nominations. It was uplifting to learn about so many writers who are using their talents to help their colleagues. It's a pleasure to honor the following for their contributions: Madeleine L'Engle, The New York Times team of 143 reporters who wrote "Portraits of Grief," Judith Ortiz Cofer, Donna Seaman, Jason Shinder and Alun Toké. We think you'll find their stories inspiring. |