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Got a poem in in Philippines Free Press



Was just doing a random out-of-boredom check if any of my poems got picked for publishing in Philippines Free Press when I got home this evening. Absolute wishful thinking.


My jaw dropped when I checked the poetry section and saw my name on the byline.


* Read my poem, Sharksfin, HERE *



But that wasn’t there yet this morning! And didn’t they say they’ll call or e-mail contributors if their work has been  chosen for publishing?


It’s already 9:45 in the evening. Newsstands this side of the planet close by 5pm. The nearest 7-11 is about 30 minutes from here. I’m too pregnant to run or cross the blind alleys. My husband is a bit too drunk to drive. And even if he happened to be sober, I doubt that a single issue of Philippines Free Press even reaches this far side of Bulacan. Waaah!!! But still, I’m keeping my fingers crossed and shall be rushing to the bayan before 6 AM tomorrow. I’m getting me self a copy of that paper, by hook or by crook!


Considering Philippines Free Press’ high standards and its contributors’ impeccable quality of work, I wasn’t really expecting for any of my poems to be included in the literary section. Actually, I was banking more on PDI’s Youngblood (sent in an essay about three weeks ago), so this really came as a total surprise.


Still in utter disbelief and elation. Damn. Philippines Free Press? Really? What an awesome early Christmas treat. See, even my little one’s kicking nonstop in joy.

in Uncategorized # Writing life

About the Author

Gretchen Filart

Gretchen Filart is a writer from the Philippines, where she weaves poems and creative nonfiction about motherhood, love, healing, nature, and intersectionalities. Her works have been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and Best of the Net, received distinction from phoebe’s Spring Poetry Contest and Navigator’s Travel Writing Competition, and share space in local and foreign publications. Connect with her on Twitter, Instagram, and Bluesky @gretchenfilart. She’s usually friendly.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Analyn Alonsagay says

    December 4, 2011 at 5:27 am

    That was awesome,, :)) congratulations ;)) You baby is also happy for u too,

    Reply
  2. Unknown says

    December 4, 2011 at 12:10 pm

    Hi Analyn! Thank you for taking the time to read 🙂 Yup baby's super happy, hehe.

    Reply

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