The Dark Magazine Is Accepting Short Stories/ How To Submit (Pay: 5¢/word)
The Dark Magazine is a monthly online magazine dedicated to publishing horror and dark fantasy fiction.
They provide a platform for authors to explore diverse and unconventional narratives within the genre. If you are having a problem with your writing, please read this article: How to Overcome Writer’s Block (10 Tips + Personal Examples)
Submission Guidelines For The Dark Magazine
- All submissions should follow proper manuscript format (modern edition, preferably).
- Submissions should be emailed to submissions@thedarkmagazine.com
- Please attach all submissions in .doc or .docx or rtf format—they will not accept submissions embedded in the body of email.
- Authors should include their bio in the cover letter.
- Response times will vary depending on volume, but may be as short as a single minute to as long as forty-eight hours.
- Query after one week (include title and date submitted).
- Please do not respond to rejection letters, for any reason, otherwise, and please, do not use mail filtering services that require sign-up permissions, or your submission will be deleted unread.
- You might want to read this article on Tips For Making Your Writing Perfect.
What They Want
- Horror and dark fantasy fiction ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 words.
- Unique and experimental storytelling that deviates from traditional categories.
- Although named “The Dark,” the magazine is not a market for graphic, violent horror.
What They Don’t Want
- Submissions developed or assisted by AI writing tools.
- Multiple submissions; authors should wait for a response before submitting additional works.
- Simultaneous submissions are not accepted.
Eligibility Criteria
- The Dark welcomes submissions from all writers, of all nations, nationalities, ethnicities, backgrounds, faiths, genders, orientations, identities, and experiences.
- There is no entry fee.
Pay Rates
- For original fiction up to 6,000 words, The Dark pays 5 cents/word on publication for first world rights.
- For reprint fiction up to 6,000 words, the payment is 1 cent/word on acceptance for nonexclusive reprint rights.
Deadline
There is no specific deadline mentioned; submissions are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Additional Information
- Response times may vary, with queries acceptable after one week.
- The Dark emphasizes its commitment to diversity and welcomes submissions from writers of all backgrounds.
- They are currently closed to art submissions.
- More questions? You can visit their social media page.
