Here is Why I Like Necessary Fiction

I’m always lost when it comes to story submissions, finding a home for my writing. It’s kind of like trying to find a home for a cat who pees on all my son’s toys because it is clear she dislikes him and hates living with us. (I have one of those by the way, do you want her??)

My stories are like these angry animals that have to leave my house, and if given to the right home, I know, I just know they’ll be sweet and sit on your lap and purr all day long. I read a lot of online literary journals, so choosing one where my work might be a good fit is a little overwhelming. So, I try to do some research.

I read an interview of Necessary Fiction‘s editor Steve Himmer at the blog Six Questions For (an excellent resource for this type of research), and I knew that my work might have a chance finding a home there. Himmer says:

I think of fiction as a way to make sense of how individual lives are woven in larger webs of nature and culture and science and history and everything else…

I think of fiction/living the same way. Writing is my way to make sense of the world.

He goes on to say:

I tend to prefer reflective stories, those that feel like a moment slowed down rather than stories overwhelmed by action. I like a story that asks me to linger and think about something rather than rushing me along.

I like that he says this. It’s a dangerous thing to say since the cardinal rule of fiction is that something must happen, some action, but, I have always been fond of those small, lingering moments in stories.

Additionally, this review of Necessary Fiction was helpful and very accurate!

(And also, now I like Necessary Fiction a little extra, because they accepted this story of mine!)

Possible candidates for Kite Flying Society….

I’m very excited and honored to have my story, Tonight, I Built a Kite up at Necessary Fiction!