How do you balance writing with the time and effort required for self-promotion?

May Garner: Balancing writing with self-promotion is definitely a challenge, but I try to see it as an extension of the creative process. Writing is where I feel most like myself. It’s the intimate, emotional core of what I do, what I love most in my soul. But sharing that work is how I connect with others who might need it. I set boundaries for myself: I give time to write freely and without pressure, and then I carve out intentional moments to promote that work. Whether it's posting on social media, submitting to anthologies, or engaging with readers on Wattpad or Instagram. It’s all about honoring the art first, but also giving it a chance to be seen and felt. I remind myself that self-promotion doesn’t have to feel performative — it can be authentic, honest, and still in service of the writing.

What was the biggest obstacle you faced in the publishing process?

May Garner: The biggest obstacle I faced in the publishing process was having to learn everything and do most of it on my own. There's no clear roadmap, especially when you're doing it on your own, trying to figure things out step by step. From formatting and editing to marketing and navigating different platforms. I've had to wear every hat, and it got overwhelming at times. But it also taught me how capable I am. I've grown so much through trial and error, and even though it was difficult, I’m proud of how far I’ve come by trusting my voice and staying committed to my work.

How do you use social media as an author?

May Garner: As an author, I use social media as a way to share my writing and connect with readers on a personal level. I promote my work across Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Wattpad, TikTok, and Threads. Each platform serves a different purpose, which is great when it comes to finding the audience for my work! I love being able to share snippets, visuals, and personal bits of my life. Altogether, these platforms help me stay visible, build a loyal audience, and create a space where readers can engage with both my work and the person behind it.

If you could be featured in one dream publication, which would it be, and why?

May Garner: I would absolutely love to be featured in The New York Times! I've daydreamed about it since I was a little girl, and I'm holding onto that big dream. Fortunately, I've already gotten into some of my smaller dream publications, including Querencia Press and the Ohio Bards!

If you could recreate the literary industry, what would you change first?

May Garner: If I could recreate the literary industry, the first thing I'd look into changing would be access. There are far too many brilliant voices, especially from underrepresented communities, that never make it to print because the industry tends to favor connections, prestige, and financial privilege. At times, the publishing world feels like a gated community you're offered very little access to. I'd tear down the barriers of that community and instead, build a system where raw, powerful storytelling is what opens doors.

In closing, do you have some words of wisdom you'd like to share with the world?

May Garner: If I could offer anything, I would highly encourage everyone to continue to create. Creativity is what keeps us alive. Through the good and the bad, the beautiful and the ugly—share everything through your words. Write about everything. Write about everyone. Inspiration is possible to find in every crevice, every nook and cranny. Keep writing, be your own motivator, and never give up your passion. If I could offer anything, it would be this: don’t wait for permission to create. Write the story you need to survive. Spill the poem that’s been burning a hole in your chest. Share your truth, even if your voice shakes when you do. Not everyone will understand it—and that’s okay. You’re not writing for everyone. You’re writing for the version of you that needed to read it. The world can be loud, cruel, and indifferent. But art? Art is the rebellion. It's how we remind ourselves that we exist, that we matter, that we feel deeply. So make it messy. Make it honest. Make it yours. And whatever you do, don’t stop.

Thank you!

#PRontheGO