The Writers Who Stay: Lessons From a Black Owned Publishing House

How time, guidance, and staying committed to the craft can reveal the writer who was already there.

I Can Do That, Verses of Resistance and Rise- Uncle Turp the Poet

One of the privileges of owning a Black publishing house and reading the work of Black writers through both their books and The Bloodline Tribune is gaining a deeper appreciation for the art of writing itself. I probably should share more of what I have learned when I can get away from the desk, because working directly with writers has changed the way I understand talent, skill, and growth.

I don't believe there is a skill or talent level in writing to compare anyone to. There is only a better way to translate your feelings to your readers. Some works I've read come off as amazing, and you can tell the writer is experienced or naturally talented. I have also read work that is harder to understand, where more context is needed or where the writer has not completely figured out how to communicate what is already in their head. Still, I appreciate the experience of observing every one of them, because I learn something from every written work submitted.

Then there are the writers who stay. They stay committed to the work and they are constantly writing. With them, I've been able to give guidance in certain areas. Some of it is basics, and some of it I learned myself through trial and error. When they practice it and apply it, their writing blooms from simple adaptations, and I realize I was only looking at the exterior shell of that writer. What I was looking for was already there. It just needed time.

That is what separates us from major white owned publishing houses: the blessing of spending time with Black writers daily, hosting writing platforms, and learning and growing together. Black writers who invest time and effort in the craft while being around us grow substantially fast. I see it.

So whether you want to write an article for The Bloodline Tribune, submit your book for publishing, or finally bring that bestseller sitting in your closet to fruition, please reach out. The time and experience we share with each other is valuable.

If you are ready to put your work in front of us:

Submit to The Bloodline Tribune For writers who want to contribute articles, essays, poetry, commentary, or other written work.

743 Coffeehouse For writers who want community, practice, conversation, and a space to keep developing the craft.

Ready to Publish? For writers with a completed or developing book who want to explore publishing with Bloodline743.