Reviews and Two New Poems

A few weeks ago, I wrote about some of the labor of publishing a book. I care deeply about this topic because the work of publishing books is part of the subject of my dissertation. I am deeply interested in knowing how books get out into the world and into the hands of readers, known and unknown. Part of knowing how this happens is engaging with making it happen, as a writer and as a publisher. While I savor this work in many ways (and am currently laboring as a publisher to promote the second Sapphic Classic from Sinister Wisdom and A Midsummer Night’s Press–Cheryl Clarke’s Living as a Lesbian), it is also labor that is uncomfortable and anxiety-provoking. The outcome of this labor, the outcome of brief notes, packages of books, pitch emails, and a myriad of other forms of communication is reviews. Book reviews, attention to the book and along with that appraisals of its value. As I said, uncomfortable and anxiety-provoking.

Two reviews came in quickly. Both good reviews, with gentle praise. Then I was thrilled to have Amos Lassen name Sisterhood as one of the best books of 2013 by his estimation. These are all good things. One of the most exciting developments over the past few days, however, has been getting feedback about the book from people who purchased a copy at the book party this weekend. It resonates with readers, and they tell me so on email. Gratifying.

So the work was productive and brought the desired outcome. Good work invites more work. That is what I am doing now. Writing new poems. Thinking about the next book of poems. Some of the new poems are being published, gently entering the world. Two are in the journal, Skin 2 Skin. I encourage you to buy a copy and explore this great journal.

That is the news for the moment. And you?

Filed under: Uncategorized Tagged: new poems, reviews