Many aspiring writers start printing first in a place others don’t think of: the editorial pages of the newspaper. And that’s a good place to start.
After all, most letters to the editor originate from people largely without journalism training, truly from the heart of the country. Yet while the authors are unlikely to win a Pulitzer Prize, the letters have wide appeal because (with rare exceptions) the writers speak only for themselves, not for an organization.
Therefore, we are likely to find controversy in this section, with all sorts of potential targets for criticism. Targets include the newspaper’s own staff, local and national government, the school system, corporate officials, developers, religious groups, environmentalists, health addicts, and more. The list extends infinitely.
The editors are eager to publish quality letters from area residents. The editorial page would look virtually blank without them. This is another reason why your early publishing efforts might succeed here.
Keep these guidelines in mind for your letters to the editor:
*Letters have word limits. Call to find the number allowed, keeping in mind that the publishers will not make exceptions.
*The editors reserve the right to edit grammar and spelling correction. Some editors change sentences, combine sentences, and omit useless passages. In this regard, resist pride in authority. Say hello to those editors who help you present a correct image.
*Anonymous letters end up in the editorial bin, for good reason. Publishers want writers who stand behind their thoughts with pride. Sign or do not send your letter.
*Whatever title you suggest for your letter, which represents a guest mini-column, expect the editor to post another heading. Only rarely does the editorial page keep its original title.
*Please note that there is no requirement for publishers to publish each letter. When hundreds of readers write about a hot topic and many of the arguments sound similar, editors select those that represent the range of opinions. When your letters don’t make it to the printed page, keep this in mind.
*Keep language moderate, avoid harsh slang that borders on profanity, and avoid sarcasm that readers might misinterpret. Never ridicule an individual or group. Sure, we read letters like that from time to time, but you don’t know how many similar letters ended up in the editor’s junk pile.
*To end my advice on a positive note: I repeat that editors want and need well-thought-out, articulate letters on current issues, particularly those that express fresh points of view.
Using these guidelines, I encourage you to join the thousands of citizens who animate newspapers with their candid opinions. He writes letters to the editor and he will enjoy one of the most wonderful privileges of a free press, to see his signed ideas in print.