Acceptance Is Subjective

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.

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Sneak Peek at the Cover for Star 82 Review 12.4 & Call for Submissions

I read year round, but I start putting out an extra call for submissions about two months before the next issue, which will be in December, 2024. Perhaps as a prompt, here is a sneak peek at the cover for the Winter issue, 12.4. Submission guidelines are here . If you read mine, I will be happier to read yours.

Star 82 Review 12.3 Is Live Online!

Just in time for a September release, the fall issue of Star 82 Review , 12.3 is now available to read freely online, or if you would like to savor a paper print copy, it is available, print-on-demand, at Lulu. Thank you to all the contributors for their wonderful poems, short stories, creative nonfiction and full-color art. Star 82 Review 12.3 online here. Star 82 Review 12.3 print issue available for purchase here .

Star 82 Review 12.4 Is in Production!

I've received one proof for our latest issue, and I'm combing through it and making corrections now for a mid-December release. We've got an eclectic collection, as usual, of art and poetry, and creative nonfiction from around the world. If you are interested in signing up for quarterly mailings for subscriber discounts, check the upper righthand corner of this blog for the pop-up menu and sign-up box. If you would like to send work to be considered for the spring 13.1 (March) issue, I've posted a brief look at 5 Do's and Don'ts for submitting to literary magazines here . Submission guidelines, as usual are here . And if you would like to receive thoughtful, gentle, and thorough detailed comments on your work, consider Editor's Eye here .

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