Celebrating nature in writing
By Alicia AnsteadMay is the time of year when many of us emerge from long, hard winters to take a restorative breath of warm air. In part, that’s why Diane Ackerman is on our cover. We thought she would be the perfect embodiment of the inspiration and comfort writers take from the beauty and fierceness of the natural world.
Another celebration of the natural world: our short story writing contest An Ocean of Possibility. We offer three ocean-centered quotations from some of our favorite writers and ask you to submit 1,000-word short stories for consideration. Submit online April 1 – 30.
Features
Natural talent
By Megan KaplonDiane Ackerman combines a love of writing with a deep dedication to science.
I am my own scribe
By Julie KrugPlaywright Doug Wright talks about obsessions and the creative freedom of crafting for the stage.
Believe in magic
By Sage KalmusA reliable narrator establishes emotional truth for readers.
What's the big idea?
By Patti HartiganSuzan-Lori Parks goes after stories with a commitment to discovery and to the power of dreamy moments.
Departments
Going old school
By Michael CahlinAre pen and paper for you?
Ed talk
By Lydie RaschkaEdits that look like bloodshed are ultimately lifesavers.
Stepping-stone to success
By Simon WhaleyReroute rejection for a positive outcome.
Look out
By Roger MorrisTry these 10 tips for managing in-advance seasonal assignments.
From MFA to book deal
By Meredith QuinnA university and a children’s publisher team up.
Get connected
By Meredith QuinnJournalists and authors come together in New York City for ASJA.
Getting Normal
By Melissa HartGot a pocket full of marbles? This lit mag is for you.
1940: 75-year-old writing advice
By Nicki PorterFaith Baldwin’s words still ring true today.
Also in Every Issue
Take Note
Wearing the right clothes, Tom Sleigh, DIY publishing, Twitter and more.
Markets
Classified advertising
How I Write
Jessica Warman: “When I don’t write, I become a miserable and awful, depressive, semi-alcoholic nightmare of my worst self.”