Publishing

Update, Take 2. Top Story - July 2025.
Greetings from the Void! It has been…probably four months (five?) since my last post here and it feels…well, like a blast from the past. I haven’t been in this Vocalite mindset for quite a long time.
By Mackenzie Davisabout a year ago in Writers
The Underland Review: Call for Submissions.
An experimental call for submissions. For poets, glitchers, microfictionists, rebels, ghosts & such. We are seeking: Poetry that twitches nervously Microfiction that self-destructs on a whim Essays with vampire fangs Visual art that shouldn’t really exist
By River and Celia in Underlandabout a year ago in Writers
Understanding Your First Week of Pregnancy: Stages and Symptoms
Your first week pregnant may not seem like much is occurring, but significant changes have already started in your body. This guide is going to assist you in becoming familiar with the stages of pregnancy, particularly what occurs during week 1, and how to be aware of the early signs of pregnancy at 1 week.
By Mommunityabout a year ago in Writers
Animal World
"Where is this?" On an unusual night, scary lightning flashed through the clouds, and the sky was covered with dark clouds, as if it was about to rain heavily. Deep in the tunnel, a low roar echoed. Whose voice came from?
By eternal momentabout a year ago in Writers
Erotic Accomplishments
My poetry has been published in a variety of lit mags and online journals. I have even self-published two collections of my poetry. Ripping the Scales from My Eyes; Unmasking Myself, and Rhythm and Muse (I am currently reformatting those). I regularly submit poetry and the occasional short story or memoir piece to stay recently published, and the most recent genre I've added to my repertoire is Erotic poetry.
By K.B. Silver about a year ago in Writers
Expert Landscaping and Lawn Maintenance in Brockton, MA – Year-Round Care
Creating a beautiful and healthy outdoor space requires more than just occasional mowing. For property owners in Brockton, professional landscaping and lawn maintenance services are essential to maintaining curb appeal, property value, and a thriving green environment. Whether you need routine care, seasonal cleanups, or a complete landscape transformation, Brockton landscaping professionals can help you achieve stunning results year-round.
By LAND LOVE LAWN MAINTENANCEabout a year ago in Writers
5 Magazines That Will Pay For Your Writing
I was once sat in a university lecture when my lecturer announced, “How many of you have submitted any writing for publication?”
By Adz Robinson about a year ago in Writers
Hooked: How My Phone Became My Drug
I never thought I’d be the kind of person who couldn’t put down a phone. Growing up, I watched adults at dinner tables, their faces lit blue from tiny screens, and silently promised myself I’d be different. I would read more books. I’d be present in every moment. I’d never let a machine control my mind. But somewhere along the way, the glowing rectangle in my pocket turned into something I couldn’t live without. At first, it was innocent. I downloaded a few social apps to stay in touch with friends. I told myself it was just for convenience—to answer messages, share photos, keep up with the news. I had no idea how easily it would all spiral out of control. In college, my phone became an extension of my hand. I’d wake up in the middle of the night and instinctively reach for it, scrolling through notifications I’d already seen hours before. My mornings started with feeds full of other people’s highlights: selfies on beaches, engagement announcements, luxury vacations. I couldn’t look away. Each perfectly curated post seemed to whisper that everyone else was living a more exciting life, and I was falling behind. The worst part was, I knew it was happening. I could feel my attention span fraying like a cheap sweater. I struggled to read even a single page of a novel without checking my phone three times. I started to notice phantom vibrations in my pocket, my brain conjuring notifications that weren’t even real. I wasn’t alone. Every time I looked around—a waiting room, a bus stop, a classroom—everyone else was staring at their screens too. It was as if we’d all silently agreed this was normal. But deep down, I felt sick. I knew my phone was stealing my time. I knew it was rewiring my brain. But I didn’t know how to stop. One afternoon, I decided to check my screen time stats. I was curious, maybe even a little smug—I imagined I’d be under the average. But when the number appeared, my stomach flipped: 8 hours and 37 minutes. Almost an entire workday, wasted on mindless scrolling. It was a slap in the face. I started to think about what I could have done with those hours. Learned a language. Exercised. Written a book. Called my grandmother. Instead, I’d watched strangers argue about politics, liked hundreds of photos I didn’t care about, and read the same headlines over and over. That night, I lay awake wondering what my life would look like if I didn’t feel tethered to a screen. I realized I hadn’t been fully present in years. Every conversation was punctuated by glances at my phone. Every moment of silence felt uncomfortable without a distraction. I wish I could say I woke up the next morning and simply quit. But addiction doesn’t work that way. It took months of trial and error. I deleted apps and reinstalled them when loneliness crept in. I tried turning my phone off for a day, only to find myself restless and irritable, like I was missing some vital part of myself. I’d go hours without checking, then binge-scroll for an entire evening to catch up. Slowly, though, I started to claw back control. I began by charging my phone outside my bedroom. The first night felt unbearable. I lay in the dark, my mind craving the glow, the constant updates. But as the minutes passed, something surprising happened. I started to breathe more deeply. My thoughts slowed. When I woke up the next morning, I felt rested in a way I hadn’t in years. Next, I set time limits for social apps—30 minutes per day. I turned off all notifications. I stopped bringing my phone to the dinner table. The world didn’t end. In fact, it started to feel bigger again. Without the constant drip of dopamine from my screen, I began noticing things I’d ignored: the warmth of sunlight on my face, the way my coffee smelled, the quiet joy of simply existing without an audience. I read books. I journaled. I sat in silence without reaching for distraction. It wasn’t easy. Some days, I still slipped. But over time, the grip loosened. Now, I think of my phone the way I think of junk food. A little won’t kill you, but too much leaves you bloated and hollow. It’s designed to be addictive, to keep you craving more. You can’t rely on willpower alone—you have to set boundaries. If you’re reading this and feel like your phone has become your drug, you’re not alone. It’s not your fault. These devices are engineered to hijack your brain. But you’re not powerless, either. You deserve a life that feels real—not just another highlight reel on a screen. Put the phone down. Look around. You’re still here. And there is so much more to life than likes, followers, and endless scrolling.
By Kim Jonabout a year ago in Writers
How To Choose The Right Maintenance Service For Your Private Jet?
Owning or operating a private jet is a thrilling privilege, but it comes with the responsibility of keeping it in top shape. Whether you’re a fleet manager, a pilot, or an aviation engineer, choosing the right maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) service is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. A good MRO partner ensures your jet stays safe, reliable, and ready to fly, while a poor choice could ground your aircraft or inflate costs. As Daniel R., an aviation MRO specialist with years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how the right maintenance strategy can make or break an operation. This guide walks you through what to look for in an MRO provider, from expertise in components like Aircraft Relays and starter generators to managing costs and downtime. Let’s dive into what you need to know to keep your jet soaring.
By NAASCOabout a year ago in Writers
Mastering AI Marketing Tools: Game‑Changing Content Strategies Every Digital Marketer Needs
How do you write your content? The rise of AI Marketing Tools has transformed the way content is created across digital platforms. These tools have made content writing faster, smarter, and more accessible—even for those without professional writing experience.
By Jhones Bennabout a year ago in Writers
Our Mayfly Vocal Stories
Introduction I was spurred to write this because of what has happened to a couple of my stories, and I am not sure what the answer is to solve this. I have written in the past about getting what I call "The Creep", which is achieved by sharing with groups outside of Vocal and the Vocal Facebook Groups, and here are a couple of articles on the subject:
By Mike Singleton 💜 Mikeydred about a year ago in Writers
How to Maintain Good Health
Good health is one of the greatest blessings in life. Islam teaches that the body is a trust from Allah, and we are responsible for taking care of it. Maintaining health isn’t just about avoiding sickness—it's about living a balanced, energetic, and fulfilling life. 1. Eat Balanced and Pure (Halal) Foods The Qur’an says: > “Eat of what is lawful and good that Allah has provided you.” — (Qur’an 2:172) Focus on whole foods: fruits, vegetables, grains, and lean meats. Avoid processed and harmful foods. Eat in moderation—the Prophet (ﷺ) said: > “The son of Adam does not fill any vessel worse than his stomach.” — (Tirmidhi) 2. Stay Physically Active The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged physical activity. He walked daily, raced with his companions, and even advised swimming, archery, and horseback riding. Try to move daily—walk, stretch, or do light exercises. Activity keeps the heart strong and mind fresh. 3. Sleep and Rest Properly Rest is essential. The Prophet (ﷺ) maintained a balanced sleep schedule, often sleeping after Isha and waking early for Fajr. Quality sleep: Strengthens immunity Supports brain function Improves mood 4. Keep a Clean Body and Soul Islam links physical cleanliness with spiritual purity. Wudu (ablution), ghusl (full washing), trimming nails, and brushing teeth (with siwak or modern tools) are part of Sunnah and promote hygiene. 5. Manage Stress with Faith Spiritual health is part of overall well-being. When overwhelmed, turn to Allah: > “Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” — (Qur’an 13:28) Make du’a, pray regularly, and avoid negative thoughts. Trust in Allah brings calmness. --- Conclusion Maintaining health is an act of gratitude and worship. A healthy body helps you worship better, serve others, and enjoy the blessings of life. Take care of yourself—for the sake of both dunya (this life) and Akhirah (the Hereafter).
By Numan Afridiabout a year ago in Writers