Chaotic Merge is a print and online publication featuring poetry, fiction, nonfiction, flash writing, screenplays/plays, artwork, and short films. Their name reflects both the writing process—the act of merging thoughts to create order from chaos—and their own publishing process—the act of gathering diverse voices to create each issue of Chaotic Merge.

Chaotic Merge was established in 2020, and since then they’ve published four biannual print editions (also available as free digital downloads), as well as two online-only zines. Their latest edition contains work from 25 authors. It’s a colorful issue that also features the work of seven visual artists.

Now through January 6, Chaotic Merge is accepting submissions for their fifth issue. Poets may submit up to three poems. Authors of fiction and creative nonfiction may submit up to two pieces, totaling 5,000 words or fewer. Authors of flash fiction may submit up to three flashes. Note: Fiction pieces longer than 15 pages or 3,750 are no longer being accepted.

Authors of screenplays/plays may submit up to two scripts, totaling 10 pages or fewer. And filmmakers may submit up to two short films, totaling 20 minutes or fewer.

Submitting authors can expect a response within three months. Authors published in Chaotic Merge receive an honorarium of $3 to $5.

Chaotic Merge accepts submissions online using Submittable, not via email or by post. They accept simultaneous submissions but ask that authors withdraw work published elsewhere. They do not accept previously published work.

If you would like to learn more or submit to Chaotic Merge, please visit their website here.

Bio: Ella Peary is the pen name for an author, editor, creative writing mentor, and submission consultant. Over the past five years, she’s written hundreds of articles for Authors Publish, and she’s also served as a copywriter and copy editor for a wide range of organizations and individuals. She is the author of The Quick Start Guide to Flash Fiction. She occasionally teaches a course on flash fiction. You can contact her at ellapeary@gmail.com.