Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts (and dilemma) in such honest depth, Thomas. In a separate response I suggested some editors that might be able to help with load-sharing advice.

But let me also say this. When subjective affinities set editorial criteria, your editorial excellence seems a two-edged sword that decapitates not only bad poets.

You are what in effect is a self-appointed judge and gatekeeper of good Medium poetry, wholly informed by personal preference and taste.

When you reject what another might see as honest, deep, and very good poetry without explanation, have you considered the potential hurt, or stifling that this might induce?

If, as you say in this article, you recognize that a rejection has poured her or his heart into a poem, you owe that poet an explanation a little more eloquent than silence.

Yes, I do see the dilemma, I'm asking you to spend more time, not less, when time is the one thing in short supply, and for that I apologize.

But just a short line would suffice, along the lines of ...great, but just not for me... and then perhaps add a few suggested publications that might welcome the aspirant with open arms.