So You Want to Grace the Pages of the Grey Lady? How to Write a Letter to the New York Times Editor (and Not Get Lost in the Slush Pile)
Ah, the New York Times. The paper of record. The ink-stained compass of truth (well, mostly true... unless you read the comments section). And you, my friend, want your voice to be heard amongst the Pulitzer Prize winners and grumpy octogenarians. Don't worry, even us regular folks can get a shot at the big leagues. Here's how to craft a letter that'll rise above the din and maybe, just maybe, end up gracing the hallowed pages of the Times (or at least get a pity like from an editor).
Step One: Find Your Inner Hemingway (But Keep it Short, Sweet, and Under 200 Words)
No one wants to wade through a Dostoevsky-length screed about the merits of sporks. The editors have places to be, like arguing with each other about the perfect font for semicolons (it's a serif world, we all know it). Aim for 150-175 words.
Bonus points if you can manage to be both informative and witty. They like a chuckle at the Times (just don't go overboard with the memes).
Remember: Brevity is the soul of wit (and getting your letter published).
Step Two: Pick Your Target Audience (Because Apparently Editors Don't Read Minds)
Is your letter a fiery response to a recent opinion piece? A thoughtful analysis of the latest political kerfuffle? Make it clear what you're referencing by mentioning a specific article that appeared in the last seven days.
Pro Tip: Don't try to write an open letter to your long-lost Aunt Mildred. The Times isn't the platform for that kind of family drama.
Step Three: Unleash Your Inner Truth Teller (But With Facts, Not Just Fury)
Now's your chance to shine! Express your opinion clearly and concisely. Back it up with facts and figures (think statistics, not your uncle's conspiracy theories).
Avoid: Name-calling, insults, and anything that would make your grandma clutch her pearls.
Step Four: Don't Be a Shadowy Figure (The Times Needs Your Name and Number)
Include your full name, address, and phone number. This isn't the CIA, they just want to make sure you're a real person with real thoughts (and not a particularly opinionated squirrel).
They may also call you to verify your letter, so don't use your burner phone that only receives cat videos.
The Final Frontier: Sending Your Missive into the Unknown (Actually, There Are a Few Options)
The New York Times offers a few ways to submit your letter:
- Email: letters@nytimes.com (fastest and most convenient)
- Snail Mail: Letters to the Editor, The New York Times, 229 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036 (for the vintage touch)
- Carrier Pigeon: (highly discouraged, but hey, if you've got one trained, more power to you)
Important Note: Don't send attachments. They're not interested in your cat photos (unless they're demonstrably newsworthy cat photos, of course).
Now You Wait (and Maybe Hope)
The editors get a ton of letters, so don't get discouraged if you don't hear back right away. They can't respond to every submission, but if yours gets chosen, they'll contact you within a week. Be prepared for them to edit or shorten your letter for space (it's their playground now).
FAQ - Your Burning Questions Answered (Briefly)
How to make my letter stand out?
Be clear, concise, and witty. Back up your opinion with facts.
How long should my letter be?
Aim for 150-175 words.
How do I know if my letter got published?
The editors will contact you within a week if they plan to publish it.
Can I write about anything?
Focus on a recent article or event. Avoid personal attacks or open letters.
Can I submit a picture of my cat with my letter?
Sadly, no. They're not looking for cat photos (unless your cat is, you know, running for president).
So there you have it! With a little effort and a dash of wit, you too can join the ranks of the published letter writers. Now get
