THE EZINE WORLD: Part I
Patricia Wellingham-Jones
Published in Writers’ Forum, December 2001
On October 6, 2001 I gave a talk to Writers’ Forum in Redding, California about what I’ve learned from a year’s exploration of online magazines (e’zines or ’zines).
Differences from print magazines: ’Zines scroll down the computer screen (no pages to turn) and tend to use visuals and music. They are often more innovative and experimental, since the cost of printing and paper don’t apply; they also appear or go out of business with startling frequency. Admittedly, they are not as comfortable or easy to read as a print journal. Generally, response time is faster and, since editors prefer e-mail, submitting work is faster and less costly (no stamps or envelopes). Most ’zines are free to read, have archives for back issues, and have a potentially greater audience. I was so excited my first time online I e-mailed 100 friends with the ’zine address; at least 30 of us were published in that issue. Most print publications only reach 200-500 people.
Similarities to print magazines: Most ’zines pay in glory, not cash. Quality of writing and presentation ranges widely; you have to search for the right fit for your work. Serious ’zines have International Serial Standard Numbers (ISSN) which lists them in databases and indexes and many print journals have online editions or use excerpts on their websites. Copyright issues are the same; you must protect your work but in most cases, they just want a one-time use. And you still get rejections—only faster!
Are e’zines here to stay? Yes. They’ll evolve with Internet and computers.
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THE EZINE WORLD: Part II
Patricia Wellingham-Jones
Published in Writers’ Forum, January 2002
How to find the right ’zines: Writer’s Market and its related poetry and short story books have a symbol and list the electronic market; writers’ magazines feature articles, classified ads and whole sections on ’zines. Newsletters and anthologies sometimes have lists. The CONPO Literary Contest Information List mentions anthologies and journals as well as contests (for information, email crwropps@aol.com ). Search Internet for journals by specific name, subject, or favorite author. Listen to your writer friends. Check the biographies of published writers whose work is similar to yours and try where they are published. When you find likely places, save them in your Favorites box so you can find them again.
How to get published: As you do in print magazines—follow submission guidelines, give the editor what s/he wants. Send your best work. Unless otherwise stated, include a short biography. Always send a brief cover letter with snail mail and e-mail addresses. Cross your fingers! Remember: Although responses may be fast, don’t send your work out too soon—revise, revise, revise.
What subjects work best? Whatever the editor wants, current events, your own voice.
Will e’zines replace books? NO! Books are easier to read, hold, carry and love.
Is having work online the same as being published? Yes—anytime work is made available to the public, it is considered published. Don’t try to cheat; it’s surprising how small the writing world is.
Trends: Many e’zine start-ups and failures; the market for fiction has decreased; print-on-demand books will get bigger and bigger.
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