Paying Markets for Storytellers

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Science Fiction

Have you ever considered writing science fiction? Some people think of science fiction as being too niche oriented, too narrowly focused on fans of the genre. However, for writers wishing to hone their skills, science fiction can be an excellent staging ground.

Because science fiction is far removed from day-to-day reality, you may find yourself approaching your writing differently, and, in the end, surprise yourself with the work that you produce.

The golden age of science fiction was in the 1940s and 50s. This was the time of pulp magazines and mass market appeal. The majority of the publications of that era died away following the advent of television, but listed below are some that have endured till today.

Analog Science Fiction and Fact, first published in 1930 as Astounding Stories, was a major player of the golden age era, helping to launch the careers of Isaac Asimov, Robert A. Heinlein and A. E. Van Vogt. It is currently being edited by Stanley Schmidt, who has been in the job for 30 years.

Analog prints short stories of up to 10 000 words, novelettes up to 20 000 words and serialised works of up to 80 000 words. The preferred length is between 2000 and 7500 words. Electronic submissions are not accepted, all submissions must be hard-copy. Take a look at the online submission guidelines for more information.

The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction is another long-running publication, first appearing in 1949. Many notable writers have featured in its pages, including Stephen King, Robert A. Heinlein, Fritz Leiber, Kurt Vonnegut, Robert Disch and Daniel Keyes. This is another publication that does not accept electronic submissions; you should see the website for submission guidelines. Fantasy & Science Fiction publishes works of up to 25 000 words, order a sample copy of the magazine through the website to get an idea of what they are looking for.

Asimov's Science Fiction first appeared in 1977, so, despite its 30 years, it is not quite as old as the two aforementioned publications. Still, over its lifespan its stories have won an impressive 44 Hugos and 24 Nebula Awards. Until his death in 1992, Asimov was involved writing editorials and replying to reader mail, but did not actually edit the magazine.

Asimov's is another magazine that requires hard-copy submissions, for guidelines view the website. Word lengths up to 15 000 words are accepted. You can download Asimov in ebook format, so be sure to check it out to determine whether or not your work would be appropriate for them. The Asimov website hosts a lively online forum, so be sure to give that a look too.

Links: http://www.analogsf.com/information/submissions.shtml

http://www.sfsite.com/fsf/glines.htm

http://www.asimovs.com/info/guidelines.shtml