A Poets View

I am an avid fan of ABC’s soap opera All My Children.  They have always been in the forefront touching on social issues.  Since the hiring of Head writer Charles Pratt we have seen more and more biting story-lines focused on today’s issues.  There is currently a story about Iraq war veterans who on a recent airing told their real life stories.  It was heartbreaking yet I felt such a sense of pride listening to these men and women.  There is also a veteran playing a role on the show.  Here is the link to a Yahoo story and Video of the real life actor and the show in which the veterans appeared.

http://spotlight.news.yahoo.com/v/10571345

Another important storyline is that of a lesbian couple with a newborn wanting to be married and all the issues that surround that particular union.

There has been controversy over this new head writer Charles Pratt.  Not all the praise is positive however,  I have to say as an avid viewer of the show for over 30 years Mr. Pratt is doing a fantastic job.  And, kudos to All My Children for being one step ahead on the issues and keeping us coming back for more.

A beautiful love song about Paris sung by vocalist Sony Holland, written and composed by Jerry Holland in this photo and video montage.

For more detailed information visit http://www.sonyholland.com 

When sending out poetry submissions to magazines and publishers it is imperative that you follow two basic rules.

Make sure your manuscript/submission is complete and free of errors before sending it to the publisher.

If you are snail mailing a manuscript make sure to include a SASE (self addressed stamped envelope).

There is nothing that screams amateur more than sending a submission which you keep asking the editor to revise.  It not only shows amateurish work but also says you really don’t care about your work and are just looking for publication credits.  Plus, it will irritate the editor to a point where your future submissions will more than likely end up in the recycle bin.

Secondly, it is just courteous to include a SASE with your submission.  If you do not, many editors will automatically trash your manuscript without reading.  Look at it this way.  Many publishers receive thousands of manuscripts per month.  Why should they pay for your postage?  Bottom line is to remember that your work is a reflection of you.  Be professional and courteous and editors will very much appreciate your efforts.