Q & A 175

I've read that it's important to address cover letters to the editor by name. But when I look at magazine mastheads there are often several editors, or an editor, a managing editor and a senior editor. Is it appropriate to email and ask to whom a cover letter should be addressed, or is that likely to irritate the staff? Is putting one of the editors' names down adequate?

The managing editor bosses people around and takes two-hour, six-martini lunches. You don't want her. The senior editor us...