My labors (labours) of love
Dear subscribers,
I have decided to make available the option for paid subscriptions here on Substack.
Four things of note:
First, this is an option. You are not obliged to pay and all my material will remain free (i.e. no paywall). I fully understand that payment is not easy or preferable for everyone and I have no desire to exclude readers. I hope you will continue to read and engage with my work whether as a free or paid subscriber. And I welcome you all with equal warmth and gratitude.
Second, if you do opt to become a paid subscriber, there are two ways in: as an annual subscriber ($50), or as a founding member ($100). You may also choose to start as a founding member, and then revert to an annual subscriber after a year. Or just go for a one-off this year of either one, as a show of support!
Third, as with free subscribers, you will continue to access my Stories site for free. As this is where I am currently most active, I will post the link to each new Stories entry here on Substack.
Fourth and finally, a small explanation. As a retired academic, writing is now my main source of income. It is, as ever, a labor of love (or labour to my UK readers). But it is labor. And I believe that where possible, we should be paid for our labor. This is as true for writing, photography, and all the arts as for any other occupation. And sadly, most writers and artists - even when we publish - are underpaid. So, we must try to help ourselves and respect ourselves.
All that said, I hesitated long and hard over this question. I am aware that not all my readers have money to spare. I believe we give what we can and what feels right to us. I trust you to do the same. And there will never be a paywall or any exclusions on my site. You may continue to access it for free and, as noted above, I will be happy to see you!
Many thanks for your continued support in whatever form it arrives.
Amy xx