The Commonwealth Tree would like to know what’s on your mind. You may write about someone you met, a place you’ve been, a strongly-held belief, an experience you still laugh about, one that makes you wonder what’s wrong with people, a poem or the results of your 2:30 AM musings.

There are three ways to speak your mind around the Tree. First, and frankly the best way to get published, is to contribute an essay or short story. The topic of the next issue is Everyone's Got an Opinion About the Government - click on Next Issue's Topic on the home page for more information. The pieces should be your original work, written about those themes, and of about 800 to 1400 words. But please do not submit a completed piece without e-mailing me first with a short description of your idea. As the editor, and as a writer myself, I’d hate to turn down a completed essay or story because it doesn’t fit with other pieces in an issue.

The second way to express your thoughts is to write a letter. If there’s something published in The Commonwealth Tree that makes you want speak out, you can write back to the Tree, and chances are your letter will be published.  Letters should be no more than 200 words and specifically about something that’s already been published in The Commonwealth Tree. You may email completed letters to the address below.

And, if you have photos or poems relating to an upcoming theme, please send them via the email address below.

There are a few simple requirements for all submissions. The Commonwealth Tree will not print angry denunciations or pieces devoted only to political attitudes. To write about political beliefs is perfectly fine, but to play the same old partisan rhythms can become boring to believers and non-believers alike. We all have opinions, and to read one another’s ideas in the comfort of a reasonably neutral place is good for everyone (at least that’s the attitude of this paper). So, if you’ve got an opinion, make it as interesting and meaningful as you can. Or, if you want to write about an experience, or just practice the magic of the written word, that’s great, too.

Your submissions must be your original work. In fact, by submitting something to The Commonwealth Tree you’re guaranteeing that it is yours. Every submission must include the name of the author.

Thanks very much. I look forward to reading your writing.

Dave Haldiman

Submissions to:

editor@commonwealthtree.org