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Editor Interview: Grayson Books Poetry Contest

Describe what you publish in 25 characters or less.

superb poetry

What other current publications (or publishers) do you admire most?

publishers: Graywolf, Copper Canyon, Rattle, Milkweed

If you publish writing, who are your favorite writers? If you publish art, who are your favorite artists?

There are many fabulous poets; we learn about some new favorites every year.

What sets your publication apart from others that publish similar material?

We publish some of the best poetry being written today. Each volume we publish is made up of poems that have great heart and yet are carefully crafted.

What is the best advice you can give people who are considering submitting work to your publication?

Submit your very best work. Follow the guidelines carefully.

Describe the ideal submission.

It has clarity. It frequently surprises. It makes us want to keep reading. It has heart, but avoids glib sentimentality.

What do submitters most often get wrong about your submissions process?

We have few problems with submissions.

How much do you want to know about the person submitting to you?

Cover letters and previous publication credits are interesting, but what matters most is the work.

If you publish writing, how much of a piece do you read before making the decision to reject it?

The best submissions are read multiple times. The weakest submissions are pretty obviously not for us, and may not get a full read.

What additional evaluations, if any, does a piece go through before it is accepted?

This varies.

What is a day in the life of an editor like for you?

It's busy, but can be very rewarding. Love finding new talent. Love the first look at a brand new book, hot off the press.

How much do you edit an accepted piece prior to publication?

Each accepted manuscript is carefully reviewed, and questions/suggestions are shared with the author, who always gets the final say on edits. Of course basic proofreading is included, but most of our authors submit work that needs little in the way of proofreading.

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