I am often approached by young writers and reviewers. In many cases we offer them work, all part of ABR’s openness to new creative and critical talent. Two things often strike me during conversations with new contributors. First, they never raise the subject of money. Such is their reticence that I now make it clear at the outset that ABR pays for everything it publishes (print or online). My visitors’ surprise is palpable. Then I tell them about our rates. Happily, these have doubled in the past two years.

Second, younger aspirants tell me how rare it is to be paid at all. Too often, young critics are expected to write for nothing, with some hazy promise of payment down the track. Outstanding young critics have talked to me quite openly about having to give up reviewing, simply because they can’t afford to go on doing it.

What other industry holds that the most effective way to foster talent, to advance young careers, and to retain loyalty is by withholding payment for years? I think the present situation is shaming – and close to exploitation. So what’s to be done?