CALAMANSI BLOG #6
- wjmanares
- Dec 9, 2025
- 3 min read
MUST BE SEEN: Visibility Matters
by W. J. Manares
Writers and their works must be seen, by all means, because they are vital to fostering connection, preserving culture, challenging perspectives, and driving social progress, while also validating both creators and audiences in meaningful ways.
When it comes to sharing creative work, writers and artists have diverse paths to choose from. Zines have long been a cornerstone of independent expression, while book publishing offers its own set of advantages.
Zines: Key Characteristics
Zines are self-published, small-circulation works that prioritize authenticity and community over commercial success. Their nature creates both opportunities and limitations:
1. Direct creative control
Creators make all decisions about content, design, and distribution.
2. Low barrier to entry
Minimal cost to produce means anyone can share their work, making zines a powerful platform for marginalized voices and emerging creators.
3. Strong community ties
Zines thrive in grassroots networks, fostering connections between creators and readers who value niche, personal content.
4. Flexible format
They can be any length, style, or topic—from poetry collections to political manifestos—with no strict guidelines.
5. Limited reach
Small print runs and reliance on independent distribution channels mean zines typically don’t reach broad audiences.
6. No professional editing or design support
Without formal oversight, quality can vary, and errors may go unaddressed.
7. Financial sustainability challenges
Most zines don’t generate significant income, as they’re often sold at low prices or distributed for free.
8. Limited credibility in mainstream spaces
Zines are not always recognized by academic institutions, literary awards, or traditional media.
9. Short shelf life
Many zines are printed on inexpensive materials and not designed for long-term preservation.
Why Book Publishing Matters
While zines serve a critical role in creative expression, book publishing offers benefits that can help writers reach their full potential:
1. Professional quality assurance
Publishers provide production support to ensure work is polished and visually appealing.
2. Wider distribution
Publishers have access to bookstores, online retailers, libraries, and marketing channels that can get your work in front of thousands of readers.
3. Financial support
Royalties can provide creators with stability and resources to focus on their craft.
4. Industry recognition
Published books carry weight in literary circles, opening doors to awards, speaking engagements, teaching positions, and future opportunities.
5. Long-term preservation
Books are printed on durable materials and cataloged in libraries, ensuring your work can be accessed for generations.
Benefits of Publishing with UKIYOTO PUBLISHING
Ukiyoto Publishing is a global press dedicated to supporting diverse voices and bringing quality literature to readers worldwide. Here’s what sets us apart:
1. Global reach
Ukiyoto distributes books in multiple languages and territories, including physical and digital formats, to connect authors with international audiences.
2. Comprehensive services
From cover design to marketing and publicity, they handle every step of the publishing process.
3. Fair compensation
Authors receive competitive royalty rates, with transparent contracts that prioritize their rights.
4. Commitment to diversity
Ukiyoto actively seeks out work from underrepresented communities, ensuring a wide range of stories are told and celebrated.
Zines and book publishing are not competing paths—they’re complementary. Many creators start with zines to build their voice and community, then move on to book publishing to expand their reach.
Beyond these broader impacts, visibility affirms that every voice has value, whether it’s telling a deeply personal story or addressing global issues.
***
NOTE:
Why "Calamansi" Blog?
I chose the name 'Calamansi Blog' because it embodies the essence of what I want my blog to be. The calamansi, that small but vibrant Philippine lime, symbolizes joy and freshness. Just as the fruit adds a burst of flavor to any dish or drink, I want my blog to bring a fresh and uplifting perspective to the readers.
Beyond its Filipino roots, the name also resonates with me on a deeper level. 'Calamansi' bears a phonetic resemblance to the Indian words 'Kalam' (कलम), meaning 'pen' or 'writing,' and 'Anshi' (अंशी), meaning 'god's gift.' This connection suggests that my writing is more than just words on a page; it's a gift, an inspiration, perhaps even divinely guided.
My 'Calamansi Blog' represents a blend of Filipino zest and a sense of inspired creativity. It's a name that is both memorable and meaningful, reflecting my commitment to sharing content that is joyful, refreshing, and purposeful.
***
W. J. Manares is the Partner/Distributor of Ukiyoto Publishing via Ukiyoto House, Philippines. He's one of Ukiyoto's prolific authors and a one-of-a-kind writer from Aklan, Philippines, authored more than 69 books and counting, a lesser-known worldbuilder and storyteller, and labelled as "the sardonic yet whimsical author of the Philippines" since 1999. You can contact him via email: wjmanares@ukiyoto.com or via SMS at +639192015217.
Comments