Episode 1: Matvei Yankelevich - “The New Obsolescence”
Mar 1, 2023
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Matvei Yankelevich, poet, translator, critic, editor, and publisher discusses professionalization in writing, struggles and beauties of collectivization, autonomy of small press vs. compromises of capital, money in small presses, moving forward with obsolescence, and the importance of amateurism and antagonism in literary cultural production.
Small presses face challenges in maintaining autonomy while navigating professionalization and funding.
Common myths in small press publishing are challenged, highlighting difficulties in reaching mainstream audiences and compromising values.
Collective action is necessary to address challenges in the small press industry and promote inclusivity and diversity.
Deep dives
Small presses struggle with compromises and institutionalization
The essay series explores the challenges faced by small presses in maintaining their autonomy and anti-institutional values while navigating the pressures of professionalization and funding. It delves into the history, politics, and practice of small press publishing, highlighting the tension between staying true to their values and the need to thrive in a market dominated by larger institutions. The response to the series has been mixed, with some appreciating the critical examination and others questioning its publication on an institutional platform. The author calls for more dialogue, collective efforts among small presses, and institutional support to create a more inclusive and diverse small press publishing ecosystem.
The struggle against myths and limitations
The essay series challenges commonly held myths in small press publishing, such as the idea that a good book will sell easily. It also explores the difficulties small presses face in reaching mainstream audiences and the pressure to compromise their values in order to succeed. The author reflects on the lack of response from institutions and the need for greater transparency in discussing the structural challenges faced by small presses, including distribution and market censorship. The series highlights the importance of acknowledging limitations and pursuing collective efforts to protect the values of small press publishing.
Hope for change and collective action
The essay series emphasizes the need for collective action from small presses and institutions to address the challenges faced by the industry. The author suggests initiatives such as forming unions, demanding support from institutions and universities, and promoting open discussions about the realities of small press publishing. The hope is to create a more inclusive, diverse, and supportive ecosystem that values independent publishers and champions their unique contributions to the literary world.
The significance of small presses in diversifying literature
Small presses play a crucial role in offering diverse literature that is often overlooked by commercial publishers. They provide a platform for marginalized voices and offer alternative aesthetics and values that challenge mainstream publishing. Small presses foster a sense of community, allowing for greater autonomy and creative freedom, and they are instrumental in promoting innovative and unconventional works that push boundaries.
The importance of volunteerism and amateurism in small press publishing
Small press publishing often relies on volunteer labor, which should be valued and recognized. Volunteerism allows for a different approach to publishing, driven by passion and a commitment to the literary art rather than monetary gain. By supporting small presses, volunteers contribute to a diverse literary culture and challenge the dominance of commercial and mainstream publishing. The value of amateurism should be respected, as it allows for the exploration of unique aesthetics and the pursuit of indie publishing ventures with different structures and values.
Challenges in maintaining small press authenticity and autonomy
Maintaining authenticity and autonomy in small press publishing is difficult due to various challenges. The pressure to professionalize and conform to mainstream publishing practices can diminish the unique qualities of small presses. Limited resources and funding constraints often restrict the reach and impact of small press literature. Additionally, the current publishing landscape, with its focus on profit and market pressures, presents obstacles to creating an alternative literary culture. Despite these challenges, small presses persist in their antagonistic battle, driven by their commitment to marginalized voices and alternative aesthetics.
In our first episode, we talk to Matvei Yankelevich, poet, translator, critic, editor, and publisher. You may know him as a founding member of the editorial collective Ugly Duckling Presse, current publisher of Winter Editions, and editor at World Poetry Books. His recent work includes the chapbook Dead Winter from Fonograf Editions and the co-translation, with Eugene Ostashevsky, of Alexander Vvedensky’s An Invitation for Me to Think, from NYRB Books.
Our discussion explores Matvei’s four-part essay series, first published on Harriet in 2020: here’s part 1, part 2, part 3, and part 4. Along the way we discuss professionalization in the writing world, money and how small presses do and don’t get it, the struggles and beauties of collectivization, the autonomy of the small press vs. the compromises of capital, amateurism, middle age, antagonism in the market, moving forward with obsolescence.
