Interestingly
we receive a small number of e-mails from young Laotians interested
in written projects or becoming writers in general. It's great to
see this, it truly is!
If you want to
get published in magazines you have to first have an idea of what
you want to write and then send a "query letter" to the
editor regarding your idea. In the industry when you send these ideas
unsolicited, they call this "over the transom". Some magazines
do not accept anything over the transom. But a great majority do rely
on freelancers and material over the transom.
When you pitch
the idea make sure your article fits into the magazine and make sure
it hasn't already been covered previously. You can check by visiting
the magazine's or publisher's website and search back issues/topics.
Your query should
only be 1-2 pages in length and include the idea that is to be pitched
and a bit of biographical info. In addition, previous samples of your
published written work (aka tearsheets) should be attached separately
and contact info. Be direct, concise and modest but informative and
creative. Make sure to have no spelling errors. Also it is generally
better not to pitch the same idea to several magazines at one time.
It may take weeks
or even months before you receive any reply regarding your query.
Additionally it may only be read by an assistant and not the editor.
But you shouldn't lose hope. All magazines are looking for great writers
and if you can show that in your query, you'll eventually get that
foot in the door. Lastly, the best tip that can be given to any writer
is to be knowledgeable about your subject or topic. This will make
writing a complete ease for you.
Regarding your
question about tieing string around one's finger is incorrect. It
is the wrist that we tie the string around. Whenever there is a special
event, usually a positive one but in your question it's regarding
an ill person, Laotians will perform a "sukhuan' (also known
as a 'baci'). The sukhuan are often done to help bring a prosperous
turnout. For example they are also performed when you have special
visiting guests, a new birth, weddings, etc.
Therefore when
it is performed when someone is dying it is to help encourage their
recovery. Or their passing to a better and greater rebirth.
