Microfiction and flash fiction are growing rapidly in popularity among writers and readers alike. But what do these terms actually mean, and where are the best places to send microfiction?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Microfiction and Flash Fiction?
According to Dictionary.com, microfiction refers to extremely short stories, often no more than a few hundred words. Flash fiction, on the other hand, includes very short works, sometimes just a paragraph long, but typically up to a couple of pages.
While definitions vary slightly across platforms, one thing is certain: writing microfiction takes precision, creativity, and revision. Whether you’re writing a 100-word piece or a 1,000-word flash story, every word counts.
Why Writers Love Microfiction
Many writers find this form appealing because it’s focused, powerful, and a great way to practice storytelling with constraints. Having a word count goal—say, exactly 100 words—can provide structure and challenge your skills. Personally, I’ve had a 100-word piece accepted by an online magazine, and the thrill of fitting a complete story into such a small frame is unmatched.
If you’re new to the format, reading submissions guidelines from various publications is essential. Alternatively, write first and then find publications that align with your word count and theme.
Top 10 Places to Send Microfiction
If you’re wondering where to send microfiction, here’s a curated list of 10 trusted publications:
- 365 Tomorrows
A sci-fi-specific online outlet for stories under 600 words. It publishes daily, making it one of the most active places to send microfiction. - Flash Fiction Online
This monthly publication accepts 500–1,000-word stories. They welcome speculative genres, including sci-fi, horror, and fantasy. - Fairfield Scribes
Perfect for work between 90–110 words (with 100 words being ideal). They accept both fiction and nonfiction, and they pay $1 per accepted piece. - 101 Words
As the name suggests, each story must be exactly 101 words. They publish weekly and offer $10 if your story is selected for their anthology. - Microfiction Monday Magazine
Accepts fiction pieces of 100 words or less. Submissions are posted every Monday, providing regular exposure for writers. - miCRo by The Cincinnati Review
This literary journal accepts fiction and nonfiction under 500 words, along with poetry under 32 lines. New pieces are published weekly. - Memoir Magazine
While not strictly micro, they accept creative nonfiction up to 3,000 words and showcase exceptional memoir writing. - Five Minutes
Dedicated to micro memoirs of exactly 100 words, each piece should capture a pivotal five-minute life moment. I’ve had a piece published here—Kismet. - Wigleaf
This site focuses on fiction under 1,000 words and publishes weekly throughout most of the year. Known for curating The Wigleaf Top 50 Very Short Fictions. - X-R-A-Y Literary Magazine
While they accept longer works, their preferred submissions fall between 500–1,200 words and 3,000–6,000 words. They’re particularly fond of edgy, experimental stories.
These are some of the best places to send microfiction whether you’re a first-time writer or an experienced author seeking a new challenge.
Benefits of Micro Writing
Writing microfiction can drastically improve your craft. Here’s how:
- Clarity: Every word must serve a purpose.
- Focus: Helps in building a central theme or emotional punch.
- Discipline: Encourages tighter edits and better storytelling.
- Inspiration: Fast to write and revise, sparking creativity more frequently.
Where to Start with Micro Writing
If you’re unsure how to begin, read what others have published. Most publications share their editorial preferences, themes, and previous submissions on their sites. Use these as inspiration or guides. And remember, you don’t have to write for publication. Sometimes, writing micro pieces just for yourself can be just as rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Microfiction is a compact, beautiful form of storytelling. Whether you’re experimenting with form or building a portfolio, there are plenty of places to send microfiction and share your work with the world. Don’t be afraid to revise, refine, and explore this creative format.
QOD (Question of the Day):
What is the most challenging style of writing you have tried?
Let us know in the comments or share your thoughts on microfiction!