Flash Glass is a monthly online magazine of short form writing produced by Rowan University’s Master of Arts in Writing program, under the umbrella of their larger literary magazine, Glassworks. Flash Glass is named after a glassblowing technique in which the artist creates unique color by layering, rather than simply adding color to a batch. The possible results are infinite, and the effect is that light can shine through the glass, but the glass obscures the vision of anyone who looks through it. Similarly, flash forms of writing allow the essence of truth to shine, while at the same time, they leave much to the imagination. Both the glassblowing technique and the literary art form of flash require deft craftsmanship and keen control.

Flash Glass accepts submissions year-round. They are looking for flash fiction, micro essays, and prose poetry, and each author may submit up to three shorts. What is flash writing? Flash Glass defines it by what it isn’t: it isn’t more than 500 words; it isn’t a complete narrative; it isn’t plot or character; and it isn’t poetry without line breaks. Rather, it’s an opportunity to speak through silence, to seek what’s essential, and to use boundaries to create something entirely outside of them. Flash writing is well-pruned and expertly curated, a single, quick bite that leaves a lasting taste.

In addition to micro writing, Flash Glass also accepts a wide variety of new media and art submissions, including photo essays, graphic literature, audio, animation, photography, short films, paintings, and collages. They are interested in multimodal work that challenges the boundaries of form and redefines narrative and text. Submission guidelines are flexible, and interested authors and artists are welcome to query. They generally accept two seven-minute video works, two fifteen-minute audio clips, or five high-quality images.

Flash Glass accepts submissions online, not via post or email. They accept simultaneous submissions, but ask that authors immediately withdraw work published elsewhere. They do not accept previously published work, including self-published work or work published online such as on a blog or social media.

If you would like to learn more or submit to Flash Glass, please visit their website at http://www.rowanglassworks.org/submission-guidelines.html.