Vestal Review publishes flash fiction of no longer than 500 words. It runs a few flash-related interviews and reviews, too, also limited to 500 words or fewer. We pay $50 to contributors. Read the complete guidelines here.
NOTE: This interview has been updated with corrected and new information.
SQF: What is the mission of Vestal Review?
David Galef: “Mission” is a high-sounding term. Let’s just say that we aim to publish excellent flash fiction, with an eye toward a diversity of voices across a broad spectrum of talents.
SQF: What are the top three things you look for in a submission and why?
DG: First and foremost, we like to hear a distinctive voice; second, saying something we haven’t heard before. Third, we’d like the story to move along and not be some static set of observations or a prose poem.
SQF: What most often turns you off to a submission?
DG: Tired or inexact language, well-worn or contrived plots, and nonexistent endings.
SQF: What do you look for in the opening paragraph(s) of a submission?
DG: We’re eclectic, so a lot of different approaches work for us. That said, we look for arresting sentences, exciting setups, or characters we want to watch.
SQF: Is there a genre/type of story you’d like to receive more of?
DG: We'd love to see more good genre fiction, anything from fantasy and science fiction to mystery and horror, minus the clichés that come from not having read enough in that category.
SQF: What one question ona this topic do you wish I'd asked that I didn't? And how would you answer it?
DG: What aspect of Vestal Review sets it off from other magazines?
At twenty years old, Vestal Review is the oldest-running flash fiction magazine on the planet, which gives us a depth and breadth that a lot of other magazines lack. Check out our archives.
Thank you, David. We all appreciate your taking time from your busy schedule to participate in this project.
I submitted to you my work of micro fiction entitled "As my mother lay dying." This piece has been accepted for publication in another journal. Please withdraw it from your consideration.
ReplyDeleteIn my same submission to you, I also included another work of micro fiction entitled "Been married." That piece has not yet been accepted, and I would request that you continue to consider it for publication.
Thank you, Peter H. Meyers
I forwarded this post to the editor.
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