Based in South Africa, The Wyrd is an online journal of slipstream, speculative, and weird prose. They walk between genres the way some people walk down untraveled roads. And, like the surprises that inevitably meet such travelers, the stories in The Wyrd are memorable, uncanny, and unexpected all at once. The best way to get a sense of what they publish is to read their first issue online.

The journal is published quarterly, and right now through May 30 they’re seeking submissions for their second issue. They respond to all submissions within six weeks, unless they’re backlogged.

Authors of fiction may submit original short stories, 1,000 to 5,000 words. Longer stories will be rejected without review. Authors may submit up to three stories per submission period. The Wyrd pays authors $10 per short story.

The Wyrd is looking for genre-bending work that blends science fiction, fantasy, mystery, horror, and literary themes. They don’t accept fan fiction, erotica, slash fiction, or “boring, realistic stuff.”

The Wyrd accepts submissions via email, not online or by post. They accept simultaneous submissions, but ask that authors withdraw work published elsewhere. They accept previously published work up to 6,000 words, as long it isn’t currently available for free online. Reprints should be noted as such, and should include the complete publication history. Work that appears on social media, personal websites, or other forums is considered published.

If you would like to learn more or submit to The Wyrd, please visit their website at http://www.wyrdmagazine.com/submission-guidelines/.