So You Want to Be a Windy City Wordsmith? How to Submit an Article to the Chicago Tribune (and Not Get Lost in the Bean)
Ever felt a story bubbling up inside you, just begging to be unleashed on the world? Maybe you've cracked the code on the perfect deep dish pizza (pineapple is a crime, fight me) or unearthed a historical tidbit about a long-forgotten Chicago hot dog stand (RIP, Disco Dog). Well, my friend, the Chicago Tribune might be your dream platform! But before you hit those keys with the fury of a thousand Al Capones on typewriters, let's navigate the submission process like a pro.
First Things First: Friend or Foe?
The Tribune accepts two main types of written contributions: op-eds and letters to the editor.
- Op-eds (opinion pieces): These are your chance to shine a light on your expertise (or at least, your very strong feelings) on a relevant topic. Think of them as passionate dinner table conversations, but with a wider audience and less chance of Aunt Mildred spilling gravy on your manuscript.
- Letters to the editor: Got a hot take on a recent Tribune article? Fire off a letter! Keep it concise and impactful, like a well-timed "you dropped this" to a politician's bad argument.
Important! Don't confuse the two. Op-eds are longer and require some serious knowledge chops. Letters are shorter and snappier, perfect for those "wait a minute, something's not right here!" moments.
Op-Eds: How to Pitch Your Piece Like a Champ
- Craft a Killer Pitch: Nobody reads unsolicited op-eds (unless they involve a rogue squirrel mayor, which, frankly, I'd read). Instead, send a concise email outlining your idea. Think of it as a movie trailer for your written masterpiece.
- Expertise is Key: The Tribune isn't looking for your Aunt Mildred's rant on why kale smoothies are a conspiracy. Demonstrate your knowledge of the topic. Are you a renowned architect with thoughts on the future of Wrigley Field? A champion hot dog eater with a Ph.D. in condiment theory? Toot your own horn (but maybe not literally, editors tend to frown on kazoos).
- Length Matters (but not in that way): Stick to the 600-900 word sweet spot. Any shorter and you risk leaving readers wanting more, any longer and they might be reaching for the crossword puzzle instead.
Pro Tip: Channel your inner Ferris Bueller and "twist and shout" (metaphorically) about a topic that aligns with the Tribune's recent coverage.
Letters to the Editor: Your Two Cents on the Windy City
- Keep it Short and Sweet: Think 400 words or less. The Tribune editors aren't looking for War and Peace, they need a quick, impactful jab.
- Time is of the Essence: For maximum impact, respond to a recent article or event. Stale bread gets tossed, and so do week-old opinions (sorry, Aunt Mildred).
- Civility is Sexy: Disagree with something? Fine! But name-calling is for the bleachers. Make your point with wit and reason, not insults.
Remember Letters are your chance to join the conversation, to be a part of the Chicago Tribune's vibrant online community. So, speak your truth, but do it with the panache of a Windy City blues singer!
So You've Drafted Your Masterpiece, Now What?
- Proofread Like a Boss: Typos are the journalistic equivalent of ketchup on a perfectly good Chicago-style hot dog (see, we can all agree on some things). Read your submission over and over, then get a friend to do the same. Even the best wordsmiths need a second (or third) eye.
- Follow the Submission Guidelines: The Tribune, like any good publication, has its own set of rules. Don't be a rebel without a cause (we already have enough of those in Chicago history). Find the submission guidelines on the Tribune website and follow them to the letter (or, well, email).
With a little planning and a whole lot of Windy City spirit, you too can see your name in the Chicago Tribune! Just remember, write with passion, be informative (or at least entertaining), and for the love of all things deep dish, proofread!
