Journalism and writing takes work. It takes time to contact sources, to interview them, to sort through notes and recordings, and then to craft something readable. It takes time to edit that work, to post it and then to send it out into the great online maw.
There are a shrinking number of paid journalists, those working for small and large publications, both in print and online. Many of us have been “transitioned” from newsrooms — a fancy word for being laid off. Some of us have moved into public relations. Others have found corporate jobs, writing internal communications.
I teach and I continue to write, but I do so on a contingent basis. Unlike tenured faculty, I get paid by the class, and only get paid when I have classes to teach. The pay is nominal compared to the work, but it I do it because I like working with young writers. Unlike full-time staffers, I get paid by the article — whether it is when I write for The Progressive, The Progressive Populist, NJ Spotlight, or other publications.
It’s a tenuous existence, but the work is necessary. Journalism and commentary keep us informed and help us understand what is happening around us. The more creative work I do — poetry, essays — offers a different entry point, but still gives us an opportunity to understand the world.
So, I’m transitioning this e-mail/blog to a paid format for some content. There will continue to be free public posts, but paid subscribers ($5 a month) will have special access — paid-only posts, the ability to comment and participate, guest blogger opportunities. Subscribers also get a copy of As an Alien in a Land of Promise, my hybrid book of poetry, journalism, and photos about homelessness in the United States as experienced in the now-defunct homeless encampment in Lakewood, N.J.
If you are a $5-a-month Patreon patron, you have been upgraded here. I will continue to post in both places.
If you like the work, consider a paid subscription. It will allow me to do more reporting.
Thanks
Hank