The Cosmic Background Magazine is a flash fiction magazine that thrives on the unconventional and embraces slipstream storytelling.
They offer a platform for slipstream storytellers, encouraging writers to explore the unconventional and embrace unique narrative styles. With transparent submission processes and a commitment to diverse voices, this flash fiction magazine invites you to submit your extraordinary tales.
So, if you have a piece that defies norms and speaks to the essence of slipstream, Cosmic Background awaits your submission.
Submission Guidelines For The Cosmic Background Magazine
- The Cosmic Background Magazine is open to submissions, inviting writers to delve into the realms of slipstream fiction.
- They value stories that defy logic, featuring elements like “giant talking frogs and characters with unexplained eyes in their fingertips.”
- Authors are encouraged to focus on character-driven narratives with a strong emphasis on voice.
- Submissions will be accepted starting from January 4, 2024.
- The magazine is open to both original pieces and reprints.
- The magazine appreciates unique voices and is open to diverse styles within the slipstream genre.
- Submissions are currently open, and the editorial team promises to respond within 15 days of receipt.
- Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but multiple submissions are discouraged.
- The magazine occasionally closes for submissions during administrative periods, during which any received submissions are deleted unread.
- To submit your work click here.
What They Want
- They are seeking the best pieces of short stories, typically under 1000 words.
- While they prefer shorter stories, exceptional longer pieces (up to 1500 words) are also considered.
- The magazine pays $0.08 per word, aiming to support authors in the speculative fiction landscape.
What They Don’t Want
- The editorial team explicitly states their preferences and restrictions. They are not interested in conservative-themed works or stories that revolve around violence against women.
- Transphobic, racist, anti-immigrant, and homophobic content is unwelcome. The magazine aims to create a space free from such narratives.
Author Rights At The Cosmic Background Magazine
Accepted pieces will require first electronic rights for three months and non-exclusive anthology rights for a maximum of 24 months, depending on the publication cycle.
Author photos are welcomed, but alternatives representative of the writer are also appreciated.
Pay Rates
Authors will be compensated at a rate of $0.08 per word for original fiction and $0.03 per word for reprints.