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Market Report No. 1: Writing for Free by Alissa Grosso Sometimes the most difficult aspect of writing science fiction can be keeping track of the different markets for publishing your work. In the science fiction field especially markets seem to materialize and disappear at something close to the speed of light. This is the first in an ongoing series of reports to help you keep track of those ever changing science fiction markets. For beginning writers sometimes the most difficult part of writing is making that first sale, but what if that sale offers no monetary compensation? This Market Report takes a look at some publications that do not pay contributors and why you may want to consider working for free. How Low Will You Go? There is a debate among writers of whether or not they will publish their story in a magazine that does not pay contributors. What, you may wonder, is the point of writing and publishing a story if you are not going to get paid? Every publication offers you something besides just a paycheck, make that two things: Fame and Glory With any publication you achieve some small amount of fame. Others will read your story, and perhaps be moved by it. You can email all your friends and relatives, and maybe, just maybe they will realize that your dreams of becoming a successful writer are not completely ridiculous. Okay, the paparazzi won't be beating down your door, but the exposure is nice. Credits and Clips When you publish your story you receive a credit. That is, when you send out your next story you can list this as a previous publication on your cover letter, as well as in your author's bio, on your web site, anywhere you think it will boost your reputation, or at least, your ego. Freelance writers understand the importance of writing clips when looking for work. In the same way, your credits and past successes can help you achieve future success. Find the Right Opportunities There are many magazines out there that will publish you manuscript without paying you a dime, but it pays to do your homework and research the publication. Will anyone actually read this magazine? Will it be worthwhile to list as a publishing credit? Publishing your story on your ex-roommate's old girlfriend's brother's personal web page may not be much of a boon to your writing career. If you have written a worthwhile story, I recommend that you attempt to publish it in a paying magazine first (some more information on those next month in Market Report No. 2,) and it wouldn't be a bad idea to try a few different paying magazines (not at the same time, though - simultaneous submissions are often frowned upon.) If you don't have any luck finding a paying market, it might be time to shop around for a non-paying market. Go To Page: 1 2
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