Six Questions for David Jordan, Editor, Crossways

Crossways publishes poetry and short fiction to 3,000 words. “Although we will read anything (almost), we especially want to hear from new and emerging writers who are looking to break into the world of published authors. Our aim is to publish lots of poetry with some short fiction.” Read the complete guidelines here.

SQF: Why did you start this magazine?

David Jordan: To publish quality writing from Ireland and around the world. It is very satisfying to say yes to people and to publish their work, and being involved in the literary world, even in a small way, is great.





SQF: What are the top three things you look for in a submission and why?

DJ: 

• Instant appeal. The writing needs to jump out of the page at me. This is because I don’t have time to study every submission. 
• Music / Form. Because I believe that music and rhythm play a huge role in literary writing. 
• Imagination. For the same reason. 



SQF: What most often turns you off to a submission?

DJ: Where the writer doesn’t provide a bio. Or if the introductory email is poorly written.




SQF: What do you look for in the opening paragraph(s)/stanza(s) of a submission?

DJ: Power. Energy. Music. Imagination. Craftsmanship. Style. 





SQF: Many editors list erotica, or sex for sex sake, as hard sells. What are hard sells for your publication?

DJ: Anything overtly political that verges on propaganda.




SQF: What one question on this topic do you wish I'd asked that I didn't? And how would you answer it?

DJ: What is the one thing you would say to those wishing to submit to your magazine?

Read the submission guidelines. Don’t be lazy or think you are above them.

Thank you, David. We all appreciate you taking time from your busy schedule to participate in this project.