Short Stories - Submission deadline March 30, 2025
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Are you a Black woman writer passionate about crafting beautifully written, character-driven short stories?
midnight & indigo is excited to announce an open call for submissions for personal essays. We’re looking for previously unpublished short stories that capture the essence of the human experience. Literary fiction delves deep into the human condition, exploring themes of identity, relationships, and the intricate nuances of everyday life. These stories should resonate emotionally, offering readers a window into the world’s complexities and the richness of personal experiences.
Subject matter and plots can run the gamut, but we want emotion, grit, soul, and writing that forges an immediate connection with the reader. We want to celebrate the artistry and depth of Black literary fiction through your work.
Need context? Check out our short story section and previous issues.
General Guidelines
- Word count: Minimum: 1,500. Max: 7,000
- We pay for all accepted pieces. Our rate is $0.07 per word for Short Stories. Rates and word count based upon the final, edited piece. We pay upon publication
- Submissions should be submitted in proper short story manuscript format with your name, email address, and the story’s total word count on the first page. For our purposes, you do not need to include a mailing address or phone number. Click here for an example of proper short story manuscript format.
- All submissions will be considered for publication on midnightandindigo.com, in our print literary journal or in our upcoming long-form anthology (est. December 2025)
- If you are submitting a Speculative/Horror piece, please DO NOT use this form. Click HERE for details.
We accept only previously unpublished work. Responses will be provided by June 30, 2025.