The world of horror publishing, while shrouded in shadow and dread, offers a surprisingly vibrant landscape for short story writers. From online magazines pushing the boundaries of genre to established print anthologies with decades of history, the key to publication lies in understanding the market and targeting your work appropriately. This guide will illuminate the path to finding the perfect home for your terrifying tales.
Finding Your Voice in the Darkness: A Deep Dive into Horror Publishing
Navigating the horror publishing scene can feel like wandering through a haunted house – many doors, some leading to dead ends, others to unexpected treasures. This guide aims to be your spectral flashlight, illuminating the best avenues for getting your horror short stories into the hands (and nightmares) of readers. The landscape is vast and varied, encompassing everything from niche online publications dedicated to specific subgenres to established literary journals willing to flirt with the macabre. The key is research, perseverance, and understanding the unique appeal of your writing.
Understanding the Horror Short Story Market
The horror short story market is surprisingly robust, thriving on the internet and in print. While book sales overall can fluctuate, the demand for short, sharp shocks of terror remains consistently high. This is partly due to the format’s accessibility; readers can consume a short story during a commute or before bed, making it a perfect fit for busy lives.
There are essentially three main types of markets to consider:
- Online Magazines: These offer wide reach and often quick turnaround times. They frequently have specific themes or subgenre preferences.
- Print Anthologies: These are curated collections, often focusing on a specific theme or author. Getting accepted into a prestigious anthology can be a significant career boost.
- Literary Magazines: While not exclusively horror, some literary magazines are open to submissions that incorporate elements of horror, particularly those with literary merit and emotional depth.
Identifying Your Target Audience
Before submitting your story, consider who you want to read it. Is it a gruesome splatterfest for hardcore gorehounds? Or a subtle, psychological thriller that will linger in the reader’s mind long after they finish? Knowing your target audience will help you narrow down your search and identify publications that are likely to be a good fit.
Resources for Finding Markets
Several invaluable resources are available to help you discover potential publishing venues:
- Duotrope: A subscription-based service that allows you to search for literary magazines and anthologies based on genre, payment, and other criteria.
- Ralan.com: A free website listing numerous science fiction, fantasy, and horror markets. While not as comprehensive as Duotrope, it offers a good starting point.
- Horror Writers Association (HWA): Offers resources and networking opportunities for horror writers.
- Submission Grinder: A free tool that allows you to track your submissions and see acceptance rates for various publications.
Building Your Portfolio
While landing that dream publication is the ultimate goal, remember that building a solid portfolio is essential. Start by submitting to smaller, less competitive markets. This will allow you to gain experience, build your confidence, and establish a track record of publication. Consider offering your stories to open-call anthologies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Publishing Horror Short Stories
Here are some of the most common questions aspiring horror writers have about the publishing process, answered with expert insight.
FAQ 1: What is the difference between an open call anthology and an invitation-only anthology?
An open call anthology welcomes submissions from any writer who meets the guidelines. This offers a level playing field and a chance for emerging writers to showcase their work alongside established authors. An invitation-only anthology is curated by the editor(s) who specifically invite authors to contribute, often based on their reputation or existing relationship. Open calls provide more opportunities for unpublished or newer writers.
FAQ 2: What kind of payment can I expect for a horror short story?
Payment varies widely. Many online magazines offer professional rates (SFWA defines this as 8 cents/word or more), while others pay token rates (e.g., $5-$25). Some publications offer contributor copies only. Generally, print anthologies offer a higher rate than online magazines, but competition is also fiercer. Always research the publisher and their payment history before submitting. Exposure should never be the sole form of payment.
FAQ 3: How important is it to follow submission guidelines?
Absolutely critical! Ignoring submission guidelines is a surefire way to get your story rejected without even being read. Editors have specific formatting, word count, and content requirements. Treat submission guidelines as the law of the land. Failure to comply signals a lack of professionalism and respect.
FAQ 4: What are some common mistakes that lead to rejection?
Common mistakes include:
- Typos and grammatical errors: Proofread meticulously!
- Not following submission guidelines: As mentioned above, this is paramount.
- Unoriginal or derivative stories: Stand out from the crowd.
- Poor pacing or weak plot: Ensure your story is engaging from beginning to end.
- Submitting to the wrong market: Research, research, research!
FAQ 5: How long should I wait to hear back from a publisher?
Response times vary greatly. Some publishers respond within a few weeks, while others take months. Check the publisher’s guidelines for their estimated response time. If you haven’t heard back after the specified time, it’s generally acceptable to send a polite follow-up email. Patience is key.
FAQ 6: What does it mean when a story is “slush”?
“Slush” refers to the unsolicited manuscripts that editors receive. Reading through the slush pile is often a time-consuming and arduous task. This is why it’s so important to make your story stand out and follow submission guidelines carefully. Don’t let your story get lost in the slush!
FAQ 7: Should I get an agent for short story submissions?
Generally, no. Agents typically focus on novels and longer works. The economics of representing short stories are rarely favorable for agents. Focus on building relationships directly with editors and publishers.
FAQ 8: How do I copyright my short story?
Your work is automatically copyrighted as soon as you create it in a tangible form (e.g., writing it down). However, registering your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office provides additional legal protection. While not always necessary for short stories, it can be beneficial if you believe your work is particularly valuable.
FAQ 9: What is simultaneous submission, and is it acceptable?
Simultaneous submission means submitting the same story to multiple publications at the same time. Many publishers allow simultaneous submissions, but it’s crucial to check their guidelines first. If your story is accepted elsewhere, you must immediately withdraw it from consideration at all other publications. Transparency is key.
FAQ 10: How can I promote my published short story?
Promote your work actively! Share links on social media, create a writer website or blog, participate in online forums, and engage with other horror writers and readers. Consider running promotional giveaways. Building a readership takes time and effort.
FAQ 11: Is it better to self-publish my horror short stories?
Self-publishing can be a viable option, especially if you’re struggling to find traditional publishing opportunities. However, keep in mind that you’ll be responsible for all aspects of the publishing process, including editing, cover design, and marketing. Self-publishing requires a significant investment of time and resources.
FAQ 12: What are some up-and-coming horror magazines or anthologies to watch?
Keep an eye on publications like Nightmare Magazine, Apex Magazine, Black Static, and themed anthologies from publishers such as Cemetery Gates Media and Dark Matter Ink. These venues consistently publish high-quality horror fiction and are known for supporting emerging writers. Remember to always read the latest issues before submitting to understand their current taste and style.
By understanding the market, targeting your submissions strategically, and continually honing your craft, you can significantly increase your chances of finding the perfect home for your horrifying creations. Good luck, and happy writing!