Have you ever crafted a short story that felt like lightning in a bottle, a miniature world bursting with life and emotion? You're not alone. Millions of aspiring writers have drawers and hard drives overflowing with tales just waiting to be shared. But the leap from creator to published author can feel daunting, a maze of submission guidelines and industry jargon. Yet, sharing your short story is vital, not just for personal validation, but for the growth of the literary landscape. Every voice adds a new perspective, a unique lens through which we can understand ourselves and the world around us. Don't let your story gather dust; let it shine.
The process of publishing can seem opaque, filled with unspoken rules and confusing protocols. Many talented writers are discouraged, unsure where to even begin. Understanding the different avenues available, from literary magazines to online platforms, and mastering the art of the perfect submission is crucial. Knowing how to navigate copyright, craft a compelling cover letter, and manage rejection are all essential skills. By demystifying these processes, we aim to empower you to take your writing from a personal passion to a published accomplishment.
What are the essential steps to get my short story published?
What are the best online literary magazines for short stories?
The "best" online literary magazine is subjective and depends on your story's style and your personal goals, but highly regarded and widely read options include *The Paris Review*, *Granta*, *Electric Literature*, *Narrative Magazine*, and *One Story* (though *One Story* has a submission fee). These publications are known for showcasing high-quality fiction and often provide significant exposure for emerging writers.
Expanding on this, consider that literary magazines vary greatly in their aesthetic preferences, target audience, and submission guidelines. Some, like *The Kenyon Review* and *Ploughshares*, have a more academic or established writer focus, while others, such as *SmokeLong Quarterly* or *Wigleaf*, specifically champion flash fiction. Before submitting, carefully review several issues of a magazine to get a feel for the type of stories they publish. Does your story fit the tone, subject matter, and overall style? Tailoring your submissions increases your chances of success. Furthermore, remember that prestige isn't everything. Many smaller, less-known literary magazines offer excellent opportunities for publication and can provide valuable feedback on your work. Don't be afraid to explore newer or niche publications; they may be more receptive to experimental or unconventional work. Duotrope and Submittable are excellent resources for discovering and researching literary magazines that accept short story submissions. They provide details on submission fees, response times, and editorial preferences, helping you make informed decisions about where to submit your work.How do I format my short story for submission?
Standard manuscript format is key. Use Times New Roman, 12-point font, double-space everything (including headings and chapter breaks), with 1-inch margins all around. Indent new paragraphs half an inch (typically achieved with a single tab). Include your name, story title, and page number in the header or footer. Finally, save your document as a .doc or .docx file unless otherwise specified.
Following standard manuscript format shows you are a professional and makes your story easier to read for editors and agents. Deviating from this format can give the impression that you're unfamiliar with the industry or haven't taken the time to learn the basics. Remember, editors often read through hundreds of submissions; presenting a clean, easy-to-read manuscript will make theirs (and your) life easier.
Pay close attention to the specific submission guidelines of each magazine, anthology, or agent you are targeting. Some may have slight variations on the standard format, such as requesting a specific file name or including a word count in the upper left corner of the first page. Adhering to these specific requests demonstrates attention to detail and respect for the submission process. If the guidelines are unclear or conflicting, err on the side of standard manuscript format.
Should I copyright my short story before submitting?
No, you generally do not need to formally copyright your short story before submitting it to literary magazines or publishers. Your work is automatically protected by copyright law the moment it's written and fixed in a tangible form (like a document on your computer). Submitting it doesn’t invalidate or weaken that protection.
Copyright exists automatically upon creation, meaning you inherently own the rights to your story. Registering your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office (or your country's equivalent) provides additional legal benefits, such as the ability to sue for statutory damages and attorney's fees in case of infringement. However, this is rarely necessary at the submission stage. Publishers and literary magazines are reputable businesses, and it's extremely uncommon for them to steal stories. Your primary concern at this point should be crafting a compelling story and finding the right publication. Focus instead on maintaining proof of authorship and submission. This could include keeping drafts of your story with date stamps, submission confirmations, and correspondence with editors. If you're truly concerned about potential plagiarism after publication, you can then consider registering your copyright. The costs and time involved in registration may not be justified at the pre-submission stage. Furthermore, most publishers will handle copyright registration as part of the publishing agreement if they accept your story.What's the difference between first rights and exclusive rights?
First rights grant a publisher the privilege of being the *first* to publish your short story. Exclusive rights give a publisher the *sole* right to publish your story for a specific period or in a specific territory, preventing you from selling the story to anyone else during that time.
Essentially, first rights are about timing, while exclusive rights are about control. Granting first rights means you haven't published the story anywhere before, opening the door for a publisher to give it its debut. Once a story has been published, even on your blog, those first rights are gone. Exclusive rights, on the other hand, can be much broader, potentially encompassing print, electronic, and even audio versions. These rights mean the publisher has a temporary monopoly on your story, allowing them to invest in its promotion and distribution without fearing immediate competition from you or another publisher. Think carefully before signing away exclusive rights. Understand the duration of the exclusivity, the territories covered, and the specific formats included. Are you comfortable giving up all control for that period? While selling exclusive rights can lead to broader exposure and potential revenue, it also restricts your ability to repurpose or resell your story elsewhere until the rights revert back to you. Be sure to read your contract thoroughly and seek legal advice if needed before signing anything.How do I write a good cover letter for my short story submission?
A good cover letter for your short story submission should be brief, professional, and personalized. Its primary goal is to introduce yourself, your story, and briefly explain why you believe your work is a good fit for the publication you're targeting. Think of it as a concise introduction that convinces the editor to actually *read* your story.
Your cover letter is your first (and sometimes only) opportunity to make a positive impression on an editor. Begin with a formal salutation ("Dear [Editor's Name]" is preferable; if you can't find a name, "Dear Editor" is acceptable). Clearly state the title of your story and its word count. A sentence or two summarizing the story's premise can be helpful, but avoid giving away the entire plot. Highlight any relevant writing credentials or publications you have, but don't be boastful. Most importantly, demonstrate that you've done your homework. Mention why you're submitting to this particular publication – perhaps you admire their recent issues, or you feel your story aligns with their aesthetic. Remember to proofread carefully for any typos or grammatical errors. A sloppy cover letter can instantly signal a lack of attention to detail. A generic, mass-mailed letter indicates you haven't taken the time to consider the publication's specific preferences. Finally, end with a polite closing, such as "Thank you for your time and consideration," and include your contact information. Following these guidelines will significantly increase the chances of your submission receiving the attention it deserves.What are the typical response times for short story submissions?
Typical response times for short story submissions vary widely depending on the publication, ranging from one week to six months or even longer. Most publications aim to respond within three to six months, but longer delays are not uncommon, especially for prestigious or highly selective venues.
Submission timelines are influenced by several factors. Larger, more established literary journals often receive a high volume of submissions, which naturally increases their reading and response times. They may also have a tiered reading process, where submissions are first reviewed by a team of initial readers before being passed on to senior editors. Seasonal factors can also play a role; response times may be slower during holidays or when the editorial staff is on break. Furthermore, some publications are simply less organized or transparent in their communication. To manage your expectations and stay organized, it's crucial to carefully research the submission guidelines of each publication before submitting. Many journals explicitly state their average response time or provide a timeframe within which you can expect to hear back. If the guidelines specify a deadline for inquiries, adhere to it. Sending polite follow-up emails after the specified period can be acceptable, but avoid bombarding editors with frequent messages, as this can be counterproductive. Keep a detailed record of your submissions, including the date submitted, the publication's name, and the anticipated response time.How much can I expect to earn publishing short stories?
Earnings from publishing short stories vary wildly, ranging from a few dollars to several thousand, or even tens of thousands, depending on factors like the publication, your reputation, and rights sold. Realistically, most emerging writers should expect modest payments, often between $0 and $500 per story published in literary magazines or online venues. Commercial markets may offer more, but are harder to break into.
While the potential for riches is slim, publishing short stories can be rewarding in other ways. Many writers view it as a way to hone their craft, build a portfolio, and gain recognition within the writing community. Publishing in reputable journals can also lead to other opportunities, such as invitations to workshops, readings, or even book deals. Consider the potential for long-term career benefits alongside the immediate financial compensation. The payment structures also vary greatly. Some publications pay a flat fee per story, while others pay per word. Some offer contributor copies instead of (or in addition to) monetary payment. It is also crucial to understand the rights you're selling. Are you granting exclusive rights, or just first publication rights? The extent of rights sold will influence the payment offered. High-paying markets often demand more extensive rights. Finally, don't underestimate the power of anthologies. Getting your short story included in a well-distributed anthology can expose your work to a wider audience and, potentially, generate royalties over time, even if the initial payment was small or non-existent.So, there you have it! That might seem like a lot to take in, but trust me, it's totally doable. I really hope this guide has given you the confidence and know-how to send your short story out into the world. Thanks so much for reading, and best of luck with your publishing journey! I'd love to hear about your successes (or even your funny rejection stories!), so be sure to come back and let me know how it all goes!