It is common practice for journals and literary agents to reject previously published writing, but what exactly does previously published mean? Why are most literary agents and editors unwilling to take a chance on work that has already appeared elsewhere? When is it appropriate to submit previously published work?

The answers to these questions have become increasingly hard to pin down as the Internet takes on a huge role in the writing world.

Most writers are interested in meeting literary agents and editors of literary journals in order to get a foot in the door. In the old days, publishers tended to be much more closed off to creative writers. Unless you attended writing conferences, the only ways to try and break into the community were snail mail or an awkward (often ill-received) phone call. But now, the Internet—and social networking—has opened up worlds of opportunities for “Lone Ranger” writers all across the country.

Literary agents and editors are hanging out on the Web, and they’re interested in connecting with you. Here’s where you can find them.