Shelfy Editorial
As digital journalism faces continued challenges, we’re creating a new home for thoughtful, enduring culture journalism on the Shelfy platform.
Our goal is to foster a space for cultural news and criticism that deepens understanding and sparks meaningful engagement with art and culture, reflecting the same intentional spirit we see in our member community.
Explore our latest Editorial pieces here.
our Editorial values
future-proof
We are release date, genre, language, location, and stream count agnostic. The focus is on depth, resonance, and enduring value - an archive that stands the test of time.
If a piece won’t resonate 5 years later, is it worth writing?
essential
We value our readers' time, which is why we only publish what's essential. Our articles are concise, impactful, and driven by what truly needs to be said—not arbitrary content calendars.
In a world overflowing with content, what makes this piece worth stopping to read?
exploratory
Our focus leans toward the cultural vanguard, spotlighting underrepresented voices and topics that deserve more attention. We’ll engage with mainstream topics when relevant, but our priority is to push boundaries.
If we were to only write about 10 subjects per year, why is this one worth featuring?
experimental
We experiment with formats, visuals, and structures to stand out in a sea of digital sameness.
How can we present stories in ways that elevate the content?
authentic
We value authenticity over echoing the crowd. Our pieces radiate individual perspectives, even if they swim against the tide. We’d rather be genuine than play it safe with neutral, hedged viewpoints.
Does this piece have its own voice, or is it just filling space?
tips for pitching
What topics are you looking for?
We're interested in a wide range of topics within culture, spanning trends, subcultures, and niche interests across music, fashion, film, technology, literature, and more.
The ideal balance is a perspective that is distinctive, but still broadly relatable to a diverse audience. We plan to be highly selective in our editorial choices, prioritizing pieces that strike this delicate balance.
What kinds of pieces are you looking for?
Op-eds that challenge or illuminate cultural narratives with personal insight.
Analytical pieces that dissect cultural trends with a critical eye.
Reported features exploring lesser-known cultural stories and their wide-reaching implications.
Visual essays and multimedia stories that use unique formats to create compelling cultural explorations.
Anything else?
We’re interested in cultural criticism and analysis with a long-term view, not news or gossip (despite how important and fun those can both be!). For example:
Not for us: "An exploration of a the latest viral meme or TikTok trend"
For us: "The cultural significance of meme culture and its role in shaping public discourse and collective identity”
We will NOT run purely political pieces. Any articles must tie in to broader conversations around art, media, and culture.