SmokeLong Quarterly is a respected online journal established in 2003 dedicated exclusively to flash fiction. They take their name from the Chinese moniker for flash fiction–smokelong story–a tale that can be read in the time it takes to smoke a cigarette. They are looking for uncommon flashes that employ surprising language, purposeful fiction arising from urgent honesty. Submitting authors can get a sense of their style by reading past issues of SmokeLong Quarterly online, and by reading “Info to Help Increase Your Chances of Publication” in their submission guidelines.

SmokeLong Quarterly accepts submissions year-round, and they usually respond to submissions within six weeks. Submitting authors should wait for a response before submitting again; they do not accept multiple submissions. They pay $25 per story upon publication.

Authors of flash fiction may submit one story at a time, 1,000 words or fewer. Submissions should include a print-ready, third-person bio in a cover letter. The stories themselves should not include any identifying information. SmokeLong Quarterly does not accept poetry or nonfiction.

SmokeLong Quarterly accepts submissions online, but not via post or by email. They accept simultaneous submissions, but ask that authors immediately withdraw work published elsewhere. They don’t accept work previously published in online journals or in print; however, they do consider work published on personal blogs. Such work should be noted in a cover letter with the understanding that it should be taken down temporarily upon publication in SmokeLong Quarterly.

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

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