We chase our tails. Over and over we ask, "Why wasn't this piece accepted?" And when the answer comes that it's "subjective," we may look at our shoes in despair. What does that mean? For *82 , it usually means, believe it or not, the subject. I read many stories about dates in cafes, restaurant conversations, break-up stories, bad relatives, and dying relatives. Most are heartfelt, but don't tell me anything new. They need to both translate an experience and transform it, show something the reader probably hasn't thought of, and something unique to the person who wrote it, yet universal enough for other readers. Tricky, but it can be done. Mostly, I look for a new setting, some fresh dialogue or strong voice, some imaginative comparisons or metaphors, or at least some variation on the themes. And for *82 , a positive direction that encourages compassion and empathy.

Coming this fall… room on the perch for a few more pieces.  http://star82review.com/submissions.html

This week, Star 82 Review brings words off the page in a lively reading at Etui in  Berkeley, California . Join us Friday, July 12, 2019 at 4pm to experience some local writers who have contributed to *82's pages. The new art, gift and art center Etui is graciously hosting us at 2518 San Pablo Avenue , between Dwight and Parker. The lineup: Dan Alter, Sarah Kobrinsky, Jaime Robles, Lynn Mundell, Maxine Chernoff, Alastair Johnston, and your editor, Alisa Golden. Contributors are from issues 1.1, 1.3, 2.1,  2.3, 2.4, 3.3, 4.1, 6.1, Flash 50/50, and Pocket Poems.