Dear Still Crazy Writers and Readers:

With the January 2017 issue, Still Crazy is entering its tenth year of publication.

I have decided that it’s time for it to take a sabbatical and will not publish a July 2017 issue.

Next year, I will decide whether or not to continue publishing the magazine.

The reasons are both business and personal. The business part is that the magazine limps along but earns little more than enough to cover expenses. (I have never taken a salary. It’s been a “labor of love,” as they say.)  This is pretty much the way it is for most literary magazines, in particular, independent mags not associated with an institution or organization.

Some literary magazines have taken to charging a small administrative fee for submissions to cover their expenses. I have thought about that but resisted it. (If you’re interested in reading some pros and cons about submission fees, I have posted some articles on the Still Crazy blog, and I would be interested in hearing your comments.)

The personal part is that I would like to spend more time on my own writing—in particular, a novel that I am presently into for some 50,000 words.

Finances notwithstanding, Still Crazy has enriched my life in many other ways. I have met many wonderful writers (via email) and am amazed at the writing skills, the talents, and the variety of interests of over-fifty writers. I believe we have given some writers the encouragement to pursue future writing efforts and have published some pieces that might not have found a “home” elsewhere.

The January 2017 issue is available for purchase on the web site: www.crazylitmag.com. Selected poems and excerpts from stories and essays can be found there, too. The current issue is some ten pages longer than usual.

My editor’s email will remain active, so you can reach me at editor@crazylitmag.com with comments and questions.

Sincerely,

Barbara Kussow

Editor