Carve seeks to publish outstanding literary fiction and to strengthen its ties in the literary community.  Though online-literary magazines are not the "norm," we at Carve believe that with time and consistent publishing of quality work, we can attain the same level of reputation enjoyed by print magazines.

In addition, Carve takes special pride in the editorial process.   While we cannot send a unique response to every submission, we certainly try.  We offer suggestions and critiques for the stories that we feel are needing that "extra push" toward publication, and we will soon have an extensive list of resources for both beginner and experienced writers.

Why the name Carve Magazine?

The magazine is named in honor of Raymond Carver, short story pioneer and a master of the "minimalist" form (though his later works espoused a longer, more detailed form.)  

What's your take on the debate about Carver's (early) works being heavily influenced by his editor, Gordon Lish?

While this question could result in an entire essay, to keep it concise, I will say I understand both sides of the issue.  Did Gordon Lish play a large role in constructing Carver's early stories that catapulted him to fame?  Yes.  But ultimately they were still Carver's words. 

As an editor, I realize my role is to shape what's already there into something better.  Sometimes I feel as though I've rewritten a story with an author; other times only a few minor changes are warranted.  But ultimately, I never take the credit, because I didn't write the story.  The author did.  And Carver did for his.

So while Lish may have helped rearrange and cut and redefine Carver's early works, it's Carver who had the seeds, the inspiration, and the talent to put the pen to paper and create the words.  And for that, his legacy should live on as his and his alone.

-ML

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