PSL—Publishing As a Second Language Becomes CSL—Christmas as a Second Language

by Linda Gilden @LindaGilden

One publishing word that comes to mind right now is the word “seasonal.” What does that mean to writers? Any piece of writing that is tied to a particular time of the year is considered seasonal. 

Obviously, right now we think of Christmas articles and books. But now that the season is upon us, it is too late to think of submitting articles and books for that year. 

The time to begin thinking about Christmas articles is in the spring. Yes, April is a good time to put on the Christmas music, turn the air conditioner down low to put a chill in the air, and put on your thinking cap.

Market guides suggest six to twelve months ahead for “seasonal” articles. So when summer has ended, it is time to put on your Easter bonnet and think about submitting articles for Easter. Look at the calendar for other “seasons.” Perhaps you can find one that is not as well known and celebrated that would pique an editors interest.

It is only the first half of December. You have plenty of time to write a seasonal blog. You could touch someone’s life and help him or her have the best Christmas ever. Do you have an hour or two today that you could use to submit to an online blog or even your own blog still waiting for Christmas material.

Instead of focusing on PSL this month, why not let a little CSL (Christmas as a second language) creep into your writer’s vocabulary.

Merry. We hear the word paired with Christmas this time of the year. And, indeed, we wish every one a very Merry Christmas. Writers should also be merry. It’s biblical. “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine” (Proverbs 17:22). Writers should write from the overflow of their hearts so a merry heart is a good thing for a writer.

Decorate. We scramble to bring out the trees, angels, and nativities that have lived all year in boxes in the attic. We want our homes to be warm and inviting. Whatever it takes for our writing to have the same warmth and invitation to partake should be included in every manuscript. It doesn’t mean multi-colored ink or confetti that pops out of each submission. But our writing should exude the quality of writing and excellent heartfelt message that makes readers want to stay with us.

Wreath. Wreaths come in all shapes and sizes. But they have one thing in common—they are all round. The shape is never ending and flows from one place to another. The publishing process sometimes seems never ending. But as you go from place to place on the circle, you are constantly learning and building relationships. If you work hard enough and don’t give up, at some point that manuscript or book you are working on will find its bow.

When you are out and about today, see if you can find another Christmas word that has a great application for writers and share it with us here.

Merry Christmas and Merry Writing!

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This month focus on CSL - #Christmas as a Second Language - @LindaGilden on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)

Merry #Christmas & Merry #Writing - @LindaGilden on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)

Linda Gilden is a wife, mother, and grandmother. She finds great joy (and excellent writing material) in time spent with her family. Her favorite activity is floating in a pool with a good book surrounded by splashing children!

To find out more about Linda, her writing, and her ministry, visit www.lindagilden.com. You can also connect with her on Twitter @LindaGilden and Facebook at Author Linda Gilden.