Absolute Write Poetry Anthology 2009 - Who's In?

[poetinahat]

We're finally getting close to putting the wraps on an AW poetry anthology started nearly two years ago - which is exciting for those of us involved.

But that was then, and this is now. Many of you weren't around.

So, Trish and I are wondering: would you be interested to be in on another AW anthology?

We'd probably do this one differently in some ways. For example:

- Set number of poems allowed per poet (editorial staff reserve right to select)
- Self-published

Other things would be the same:
- Poems must be unpublished (posting in AW doesn't count)
- Cooperative effort among the AW poets

So, is anyone keen? Answer the poll if you are!

[Perks]

I missed the last one somehow. I'd play!

[Feiss]

That would be amazing, and I have a few art skillz, nothing that would pay the bills, but I'd definitely want to help in that way too.

[caseyquinn]

i would love to be apart of it

[dobiwon]

Count me in as a contributor. No artwork or design stuff (it wouldn't be pretty :D)

[Serena Casey]

I don't have many poems I'd let anyone see, but there are a couple I'm proud of and would submit. And I'm a graphic designer, so I could also be talked into helping with design.

[C.bronco]

Doooood, can I be in it? Can I? Can I?
:D

[Sheryl Nantus]

interested, I am.

[kdnxdr]

I would.

kid

[ddgryphon]

If I can remember how to write, I'll contribute.

[Priene]

I'd be interested.

[Teena]

Since I wasn't around for the previous, I voted 'not sure - need more info' ... but I'm probably good for submissions. I'm also real mediocre at suggesting titles, but I like to do it anyway. :D

[Duke]

I'd be pleased to write something to submit. Maybe proof, too. Sounds good that you're doing this. I missed participating before.

[Appalachian Writer]

I'd be happy to submit a few things if you all would be interested. (It's 5:24 AM here and I'm a little wonky) Anyway, just let me know what you need.

[KTC]

I have 0 recollection of my argument against participating in the first anthology. And by 0, I mean 0. I haven't a clue what I said, but I know I said it vociferously. I'd be a hypocrite to say that I'd have anything to do with this one. So, my answer is no. I just don't know why.

[Feiss]

I have 0 recollection of my argument against participating in the first anthology. And by 0, I mean 0. I haven't a clue what I said, but I know I said it vociferously. I'd be a hypocrite to say that I'd have anything to do with this one. So, my answer is no. I just don't know why.

OMG you're crazy! That's an ideology driven by nothing!

[scarletpeaches]

I say yes. Writing poems is how I let off steam. I never expected to get anything from writing poetry but a feeling of creativity so if anyone else likes reading what I come up with, they're welcome.

[KTC]

OMG you're crazy! That's an ideology driven by nothing!

I am actually clinically crazy, yes. But that has nothing to do with this. I remember the last anthology and I remember being rather boisterously against it...but I have no recollection why I would have taken that stand. I say no to this one because of my actions in the discussion thread about the last one. Like I said, I have no idea what my original arguments against it were...but that doesn't negate the assholedness of my argument. I'm complicated.

[Feiss]

I am actually clinically crazy, yes. But that has nothing to do with this. I remember the last anthology and I remember being rather boisterously against it...but I have no recollection why I would have taken that stand. I say no to this one because of my actions in the discussion thread about the last one. Like I said, I have no idea what my original arguments against it were...but that doesn't negate the assholedness of my argument. I'm complicated.

Isn't the remedy to assholedness unassholizing? You're not even an asshole and I refuse to believe anyone that claims otherwise, so there's not even a butthole in question here. The butthole is out of bounds.

Anyways, whatever you decide, I respect your decision, although I do reserve the right to pout very poutily

[scarletpeaches]

I shall write a poem about you pouting over KTC's butthole.

[Feiss]

I shall write a poem about you pouting over KTC's butthole.

Such words are not meant for the mortal realm.

[KTC]

I'm right here, people. I'm in the room.

[Feiss]

yes, but that can't be helped, according to your location you're "here, there, everywhere" how's any discussion about you to be done then?

(psst do the anthology)

[Billytwice]

I have 0 recollection of my argument against participating in the first anthology. And by 0, I mean 0. I haven't a clue what I said, but I know I said it vociferously. I'd be a hypocrite to say that I'd have anything to do with this one. So, my answer is no. I just don't know why.


This statement is enough cast a doubt in someone's mind.
I would love to know the original argument.
Until then, I will delay a decission.

[poetinahat]

I have 0 recollection of my argument against participating in the first anthology. And by 0, I mean 0. I haven't a clue what I said, but I know I said it vociferously. I'd be a hypocrite to say that I'd have anything to do with this one. So, my answer is no. I just don't know why.
*ahem* (tap-straightens stack of 3x5 cards on desk, faces jury)

Now then, let's take a trip back in time -- to the original "Let's publish a poetry book" thread (http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/showthread.php?t=52742):

And I'm not doing this to embarrass anyone (gestures casually, but significantly, in the vague direction of the 'accused'). I only want The Truth to be heard!

Exhibit A: KTC says, "I like the idea. . . ." (http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1068287&postcount=10)

Exhibit B: After discussion about a themed book, William Haskins suggests (http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1068393&postcount=11) the only unifying theme should be that we're AW poets, thereby representing the forum best. KTC agrees (http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1069064&postcount=26) and says works should be previously unposted.

Exhibit C: Annie O recommends (http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1070834&postcount=35) that poems be selected from submissions; KTC agrees (http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1073049&postcount=38).

Just saying -- my friend, there was a point in time when you were very much for the idea. If you come around to that thinking again, we'll all rejoice.

[William Haskins]

i stand by my view as expressed in the post linked above.

i would be happy to contribute in any way i can.

[scarletpeaches]

Rob, why no avatar? :(

[moblues]

I would submit. How does the selection process work? You can take what's on the board--I don't care. I'll submit from my archives as well. If I remember correctly, this is for charity. So, yes. Count me in.




Mike

[jst5150]

Once again offering design and illustration services, but now officially retired from the military, will be able to complete said work in a timely manner.

Poems, if needed, to fill in.

[kdnxdr]

KTC, you are complicated but that's the way we love you!

[Cabria]

Absolutely interested Rob.

Debbie :)

[P.H.Delarran]

I'm interested. just started a fiction project, but now that my creativity is somewhat stirred after a long block, I will try to steer some of it back into poetry.

[skelly]

I'd contribute again. But only if Kevin does so as well...

:D

[Feiss]

lol, way to put on the pressure skell

[Sarita]

Contributing and helping, yes. I'm handy with ink and watercolor stuff, if you need any art. I can proof, if you have another pair of eyes that will do the same. Anything really, I am flexible.

[Dichroic]

I'd want to know the actual plans before contributing. I'm still a bit disappointed that the 'gunfighter' anthology seems to have stalled out.

[Ganesha]

count me in. I love this site.
KTC I'd love to rub words next to yours. I totally honor what you decide. no pressure.
G.

[poetinahat]

I'd want to know the actual plans before contributing. I'm still a bit disappointed that the 'gunfighter' anthology seems to have stalled out.
Jason's mighty busy, what with retiring from the Air Force, a new job, and moving to a new country. He might appreciate the offer of a helping hand.

He's worked his butt off for this forum.

[jst5150]

I'd want to know the actual plans before contributing. I'm still a bit disappointed that the 'gunfighter' anthology seems to have stalled out.
I leave the country March 13.

It will be done before that.

I regret that that particular volunteer effort has not seen a finish. However, it is my goal to finish it before I leave March 13.

Thanks for the opportunity to address it.

[Ganesha]

what country are you moving to?

[Joycecwilliams]

I will submit a poem or two...

[Dichroic]

Jason's mighty busy, what with retiring from the Air Force, a new job, and moving to a new country. He might appreciate the offer of a helping hand.

He's worked his butt off for this forum.

Good time to ask for help then. Jason, what help do you need?

(And yeah, what country?)

[jst5150]

Germany.

The offer is appreciated. However, the concern was never labor. Just time. Which, as a military retiree, I have oodles of lately. So, again, I should -- SHOULD -- have a lulu.com downloadable copy available to you by the middle of the week.

Thanks.

Good time to ask for help then. Jason, what help do you need?

(And yeah, what country?)

[brokenfingers]

Buckle up your seatbelts, folks. I'm getting in.

[dclary]

I'll write KTC's poem for him.

[Feiss]

I'll write KTC's poem for him.

LOL

[Poetman]

I'll put in a poem or two as well :)

[Feiss]

I'll put in a poem or two as well :)

OMG ROB IT'S YOUR DOPPLEGANGER!!!

[Stew21]

I am actually clinically crazy, yes. But that has nothing to do with this. I remember the last anthology and I remember being rather boisterously against it...but I have no recollection why I would have taken that stand. I say no to this one because of my actions in the discussion thread about the last one. Like I said, I have no idea what my original arguments against it were...but that doesn't negate the assholedness of my argument. I'm complicated.


You didn't agrue about it. It was just uncertain -theme/not theme and I think the theme was a turn-off to you, in that you found it difficult to write within a defined theme. It was uncertain how it would be structured and I think you frustrated early on and decided against it.
It's not complilcated. This is a different book, and a lot of lessons were learned the first time around. I think this will be a quite different scene.
Please reconsider. :)

[Stew21]

I'll also be contributing - poetry and any other services I can provide in proofing, etc.

[jst5150]

I think this will be a quite different scene.

Explain, please. :)

Kevin, you're a poetic talent whom we all appreciate. And I think these compilations would give a better opportunity to showcase those talents to people outside AW while providing you and friends a keepsake. So, I'd be one of those people asking you to think it through and join in.

[Stew21]

Good question, Jason. I meant we learn from our experiences, and the unknowns and challenges from the first anthology will help to make the second anthology start more smoothly. it was in those beginning days that I think were a source of frustration to Kevin. The second time around provides the benefit of experience.

[skelly]

I was a litle frustrated too! I had angst!

:)

[Stew21]

I had angst too because I didn't have anything to submit by the deadline. I was in a big ol ugly poetry slump.

[poetinahat]

Jason, that's how I read Trish's comment too - we started out knowing we wanted to put together a book, but that was about it. There was a lot of "Well, what should we do now?" and "I don't know... what YOU wanna do?"

There may be more angst to come, but we'll all have espresso and Gauloises at the end of it. Or something.

On a more Breakfast Club note:

I'm profoundly grateful that people are even still glad about the book; I'd figured the wait had poisoned it for them.

Even in the frustrating times, being involved with you poets has been deeply rewarding for me, and I'll always be grateful for the chance to work, play, and argue with you.

[moblues]

I had angst too because I didn't have anything to submit by the deadline. I was in a big ol ugly poetry slump.

Rats. So I missed it? Oh well, like the Cubs, there's always next year. Or century. ;)




Mike

[rachelsnyder]

I wasn't around for the first effort, so voted "Need More Info." Apologies if this has already been discussed ad infinitum.

I understand that this is an unfolding work-in-progress, but can anyone say more about what might happen with the anthology once it's created?

Will it be an e-publication - or a hard copy book(let)? Is the intent to promote the collection via the Internt -- to blogs, other forums, etc., or is it more of a mutual admiration society thing? Is this a potential money-making venture, or...?

As in all publishing efforts, the compilation tends to be the easy part. What hangs people up most often is "OK, we've created these gems. Now what?"

Hope this enlivens the conversation - not meant to weigh it down in any way...

[C.bronco]

Okey Dokie. Where do we send our brilliant works?
:)
Let's get it on!

[Duke]

Has a theme been decided? What will be the guidelines for submitting?

[Rivana]

Of course I'm game. Poetry, design, proofing, anything you need.

[poetinahat]

Glad so many are so keen! We're only at the interest-gathering stage right now, and I think it's pretty well clear that there is interest.

I've got quite a bit on with RL work at the moment, but keep bugging me about this. Let's not let it drop.

(Duke, I'm going out on a limb to say there won't be a theme. It'll just be something like 'send your best three poems' -- the concept is simply collecting Absolute Write poets' works.

[C.bronco]

I hope I don't space out and miss the submissions window.

[Duke]

poetinahat, that kind of theme freedom allows me flexibility to start getting creative again.

[jst5150]

Meatspace work seems to be one of the greatest challenges we have in compiling a work like this. I know it is for me. :)

PIAH will come through in flying colors once the opportunity emerges. Stay keen, kids. ;)

[NeuroFizz]

Just saw this--put me on the contact list. I'll contribute and give the editors pick of the litter (or if thematic, I'll write some new ones).

[Annie O]

Of course I'd love to be in. I haven't been around for a while and feel very guilty about it but I am willing to help out if need be. What's happening with the first one, Rob - I'm sorry, I haven't read all the posts and really must do that to catch up.

[dclary]

I'll participate, assuming I'm not, er, otherwise occupied.

[Mogiz]

I am In, it sounds like a lot of fun. I love a good poetic challenge.

[poetinahat]

Just a note to let you all know that it's still on - we're only at the interest-gauging stage right now. Trish and I are both pretty swamped in RL at the moment, but this is definitely a go.

Feel free to give me a nudge, though - anything that indicates you're keen to do this is a positive.

[myscribe]

I'm interested in seeing how this project plays out. I'd contribute a poem or poems, and lend any of my special talents as needed (editorial, layout, creative, negotiating, cuteness, um...) ;)

[Lady Cat]

This sounds like a lot of fun, count me in!

[caseyquinn]

Can we put some structure around this? Just so it doesn't just get dropped? How about:

April: Pick three editors for the book. Responsible for selecting the poems, getting it structured, picking cover art and submitting it.

May - June: Poets submit 3 poems to said selected editors AND artists if willing can submit cover art to said editors

July - August: Book is put together by said editors

September: Book is for sale

Something like that, space it out so it can fit into normal life but so that people can know what to expect and when...

[Exir]

Sounds like fun. I'd love to submit poems!

[poetinahat]

Casey, you're right - absolutely. Trish and I will talk and figure out what's reasonable within our own schedules.

Can we put some structure around this? Just so it doesn't just get dropped? How about:

April: Pick three editors for the book. Responsible for selecting the poems, getting it structured, picking cover art and submitting it.

May - June: Poets submit 3 poems to said selected editors AND artists if willing can submit cover art to said editors

July - August: Book is put together by said editors

September: Book is for sale

Something like that, space it out so it can fit into normal life but so that people can know what to expect and when...

[kdnxdr]

My life is going in a "million different directions" regarding family matters, health issues, etc.

I want to participate soooooooooo bad; I'm going to try to pull myself together and submit.

I don't know what else I'm able to contribute but I have worked at several jobs doing data entry, that's about the only expertise I have.

kid

[Dichroic]

Now I'm confused. This is completely different from the Poetry Book Work Room that just popped up ... right?

[poetinahat]

Nope, that's totally different - that's a work area for the other book project, started two years ago (and, ahem, nearly finished). It's meant to be visible only to the people involved (plus mods). Hmmm.

[KTC]

FYI... it seems the Poet Laureates see it too. It was visible to me for the period in which I was laureate. Now to Di.

[Dichroic]

Wow. I didn't realize the PoLaur position came with supersecret decoder ring. Cool!

[Hoodimann]

Good luck with both ventures.

:)

[Pat~]

If I can remember how to write, I'll contribute.

What he said. ;)

[C.bronco]

When do I submit? PM me, please, because I am flighty, yet I got STUFF.

[caseyquinn]

I know there was going to be a scheduled announced on when things should be subbed... not sure if it ever came out though... Anyone know?

[Susie]

Sure I'd be glad to submit a poem to it. Looking forward to it and to the previous one coming out. Thx much, Poet.

[caseyquinn]

Just giving this the usual bump so that it doesn't fall to far off the radar...

[midnight candle]

count me in too

[kdnxdr]

When do we submit?

[poetinahat]

Good work on the bumping... well needed.

I'm out until next week - daughter's birthday party coming up. But I think Casey has an excellent proposal. Y'all are right -- let's get a move on.

Let's say, as an opening proposal (subject to Trish's agreement):

poems will be accepted starting June 15 and not before. (Then, we'll define the details.) I'm also thinking, say, maximum three to five poems per poet.

By the end of June, we can have editing/layout people in place. If you want to be involved and haven't put your name in yet, do so by then.

More thoughts?

[caseyquinn]

Is there a theme for the collection? Or form it should be in to make the collection more uniform or is it pretty much let it fly and be as diverse as possible?

[poetinahat]

No theme. Show us what you've got.

[Perks]

I'd still like to play. I've been swamped and haven't done more than mostly lurking for a good long while, but it would be fun to see what came together in this project.

[Steppe]

Very new to all this. I tend to set back and read and submit to the critique forum. I could submit a poem or so but wouldn't now how to go about it.Just let me know.

[WriteOn85]

I want in on this. Poetry is what got me into writing in the first place, and I've been searching for a chance to be published for the longest time.

[C.bronco]

Are we on yet, kids? I want to submit!

[C.bronco]

Who do I harass with my submissions?

[poetinahat]

Read Post #88, please...

[caseyquinn]

Just a bump for all you poets out there - June 15th starts the submission period for the AW Poetry Collection!

3 - 5 poems per poet -


Question:
who do they get sent to, Rob here via PM ?
when is the close of the submission period?

[kdnxdr]

Can our submissions be anything we've posted to date?

[caseyquinn]

From what I have read it can be any poem you have written that you are willing to grant whoever makes up the collection permission to publish it in a print version

[mkcbunny]

I am back and available for copyedit/proofing detail, if needed.

[caseyquinn]

It is now June 15 :)

[Ambrosia]

It is now June 15 :)It is indeed. Does that mean our submissions can start flying? Inquiring minds want to know. ;)