Summary

Middle-Pause emphasizes the importance of submitting only new drafts for publication to ensure featured visibility on their platform.

Abstract

Middle-Pause publication encourages writers to submit unpublished drafts for a chance to have their stories prominently displayed in the LATEST section for at least an hour. This policy is in place to avoid the bad practice of switching stories that have already been published elsewhere, which can happen accidentally on a writer's profile. The publication stresses that duplicate copies are not allowed, and writers should create a new draft and delete the original if they publish by mistake. Failure to adhere to this guideline may result in an otherwise excellent story being rejected. Middle-Pause acknowledges the challenges writers face with the publishing process, referencing a humorous piece by Debbie on the dilemma of clicking the 'publish' button. Additionally, the publication highlights the work of Marilyn Flower, a dedicated writer who practices SoulCollage® and has authored books on creative blogging and encourages writers to engage with her various online platforms.

Opinions

Middle-Pause values the visibility of new stories and prioritizes them in their LATEST section.
Accidental publication to a writer's profile is a common issue, and Middle-Pause sympathizes, having experienced it themselves.
The publication discourages the practice of switching already published stories, considering it bad form.
Middle-Pause is understanding and provides guidance on how to rectify accidental publications.
The importance of having only one version of a story is emphasized to prevent rejection of quality content.
Debbie's article on the publishing dilemma is recommended, suggesting the publication appreciates relatable and humorous insights into the writing process.
Marilyn Flower is showcased as a prolific writer and contributor to the writing community, indicating Middle-Pause's support for writers who actively engage with their audience and offer inspirational tools.

Self-Editing Tip # 14: We Love You and Your Stories but DRAFTS ONLY!

Besides you want to appear on top right?

Who likes to be on top?

Yes, I said it that way to get your attention. But work with me here.

When we publish your story, we want it to be in the most prominent place we can put it. And that’s right on top of our LATEST section. With a whole row all to itself.

We like to keep it there for at least an hour if at all possible, sometimes longer.

That way everyone who comes to Midde-Pause will see it. And if you’ve got a good title and a compelling picture, they’ll click on it and read it.

Unless your story’s already been published.

If it’s in another publication, making that switch is considered bad form and frowned upon.

But most of the ones we get that are already published are just published to the writer’s profile. Sometimes that happens by accident. We know, because we’ve done that ourselves. Darn!

If you can catch it in the moment, you can copy it into a new draft and delete the original. Medium does not allow duplicate copies of the same post, so you need to have just one.

So unless you’ve made a special arrangement with a Middle-Pause editor, please, please, please send us only new drafts.

Or you might find an otherwise amazing story rejected.

Okay, now you know.

We’ve been there with you, and even written about it. Enjoy Debbie’s creative reflection on the to publish or not conundrum:

The Bright Green Button that Haunts My Dreams

The question is, “should I click on it?”

medium.com

Marilyn Flower’s a sacred fool who writes every day — fiction, poetry, ‘s and blogs — inspired by a process called SoulCollage®. She’s the author of Creative Blogging and Bucket Listers, Get Your Brave On. Follow her Sacred Foolishness or SoulCollage® for Writers, and Stay in touch!