Today so far there have been 35 submissions. Thank you. I accepted 31 and feel I owe an explanation for the rejections.
You may recall that my policy is as long as it is writing or an attempt to write, it gets in. The exceptions would include games, chats and anything else where there is just typing going on with no attempt to tell a story, discuss writing, or convey information through writing.
Today's rejections included:
1) Something that was cut and pasted from another website. Somewhere in the post there may have been commentary on the other person's writing, but I really want to encourage original writing, and cut/paste doesn't fit the bill. Sorry.
2) A game was being introduced, and even though the game was about writing I rejected it. This might seem a bit unfair, and I'm torn. I suggest the author submit it on another day and perhaps one of the other editors will let it in. I've just set out a rule against games, and feel I should stick to it.
3) There was a call for submissions to another group. Writing was being solicited, yes, but the call was not in itself writing. Again, one of the other days' editors will find it appropriate for their day, but I saw no writing.
4) There was a post promoting a book that has been published. It appeared to be posted by the author. I think it's great that the work has made its way into print, and the subject matter seemed important. Still, it was all about the book's availability and there was very little in the way of writing. If the person would like to submit an article to Gather on the topic, I'd be happy to allow it into the group.
So, now I'm going to go read the work that's been posted today. I'm sure I'll find something great to feature.
Stay tuned!
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Comments: 8
I can usually spot writing without even opening the post. The first couple of sentences generally make it clear what's going on. And not to repeat myself, but I don't care what the subject matter is or whether the person "can write" (yet). Everyone is welcome to come and write. Yet, some things are more typing or advertising or point raking, and I try to keep these from getting between the writers and readers.
What I have not had to do yet is choose where someone is being mean and doing so while exhibiting considerable writing skill. I may have to read such a thing and agonize over it quite a bit. I don't want to edit according to content, but if someone is going to be a troll, that will be a hard call for me.
Darlene, check out Writer's Critique for a critique group here on Gather.
JG, no problem at all. It sounds like fascinating subject matter. I hope you get lots of feedback. If you were to publish small exerpts to Gather, that might help you get more response. As a plus, I would accept that as a writing piece in the group.