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Dear Mr. Pappas -
Having written several editorials (many of which were published), may I add to the list of what is most-likely-to-get-printed, from my experience:
* Write about timely issues, especially if one's opinion may affect the outcome of a pressing situation (kind of redundant, but a little bit of a different take)
* Use correct grammar (and spell-check!)
* Be passionate with your words regarding the subject that you're writing to the editor about
* Be controversial (but not over-the-top)
* BE COURTEOUS to the Editor in your farewell
Thank you for your time and consideration Mr. Pappas, and thank you for setting up this forum.
Sincerely, -Dave Burgess
283 Lowell Rd., Hudson, NH 03051
(603) 491-2160
In general everything seems OK to me. You perhaps should allow a little lee way, either wat, for that gut reaction thing. Don't take it to extremes, but if something seems off about a letter it probably would be a good idea not to publish it. I'm not talking personal opions here, just that hmmmm moment.
You have managed to discourage me from sending in a letter I've been thinking about writing. Don't worry about it, it was just a silly thought I had.
Don't be discouraged about writing your letter. If something's on your mind, write about it! What's the worst that can happen? It doesn't get published. So what?! You got a weight off of your chest just by writing it, and sending it in... (concerns are never "silly")
Your criteria for prioritizing letters makes sense to me.....because it give priority to the opinions of people "around" the readers....who are the ultimate reason the paper exists.
But let me also throw something out that helps me when I write a letter to the editor. (NOTE: No one has ever confused me with a good writer, but I've written a few letters myself and I try to follow the simple format of good story telling.)
1) Tell people what you are going to say.
2) Say it
3) Tell people what you said
Like I said, I need to remember that simple formular, and to keep my focus "sharp" else my writings will easily ramble and put readers to sleep.
But your focus on the people and subjects of the letters is right on target.
Thanks for sharing,
-Quentin
Quentin,
Given the limitations of space in the letters to the editor, I would suggest just item #2, but clearly stated, and not stating it three times.
maddog
Your items of "praising for a good|lousy job" might add the provision of stating a "specific" good or lousy job.
For that matter "general rants" with less specificity would go lower on the list than clear, concise, specific and useful critiques of any particular situation or person.
maddog