I have received some interest from an online publication for a short story I submitted. They want to cut about 2600 out of my 3300 word length, then have me re-submit as flash fiction.
Needless to say I'm torn. I would like the exposure at this point--it's my second completed short story, and my first was just published, so I'd love to bat 1.000--but the 700 or so words that are left are really just the climax.
No disrespect to the editor--I appreciate the consideration, and they clearly know their stuff. But I feel like it wouldn't be all that satisfying to see just one-fifth of my work out there for all to see, leaving out so much context that the spirit of the story is lost (maybe a pretentious statement given that the story is about an Asian prostitute).
Also note I've only submitted this piece to two places thus far. I'm not expecting a response from the second anytime soon.
Thoughts?
Why did they say they wanted ot cut that much?
... said the rest didn't work, etc. Usual stuff. They also don't like the title.
Hmm. Unless the editor gave me some detailed feedback on exactly why and what he was going for then I think that might be a bit much for me.
But I might be open to suggestion if what they were asking seemed to make sense.
Tough one. It would depend on a lot of things. How much do you value a credit from this publication? Do you feel the part of the story they want to go with works standing alone? Could it not exist in two forms, a flash and a short story?
Lots of variables.
I would say go for it IF you keep ownership. Then later you can publish the full version. I mean this is a tough call though....if you don't own it once it's published....I would just ask yourself if it is worth it? If it is, do it.
Yeah - I often have to cut 80% of my own work....
For some reason I think of Metallica's ...And Justice For All. (yeah, I'm switching it up - or going tangental?).
Someone in the band said that they'd jammed so many time-changes, extended bridges, long solos, etc. into the one album, they actually regretted it later and thought that the album & its songs would have been better if the songs were simplified and streamlined - and they would have gained two great albums from that one good album ("Shortest Straw"; "Harvester Of Sorrorw; and "One" are three exceptions & are perfect as-is).
So, by chopping the set-up or backstory and choosing to publish your climatic last fifth of your story, they are validating part of your writing....moreso than denigrating the other 4/5 of your story.
And, they free you to use the other 4/5 elsewhere, or in other stories...
And, they free you to use the other 4/5 elsewhere, or in other stories..."
Good point, I have recycled lines on occasion from stories I did nothing with.
If there are two reasons you should consider making a change this drastic (and yes, cutting that much is pretty fucking drastic), it comes down to money and the strength of the credential.
Is it Electric Literature or Word Riot or something like that, or is it some shit that hardly anyone has heard of? Are they going to fork over some cash, and is the amount worth the compromise?
If the answer is no, then fuck it. Move on. Online publications are a dime a dozen, and ultimately, it's your name attached to the story. Don't think that just because some editor gives you a whiff of publication that you have to flip over and let your work take it in the ass.
@ Boone I like your example... One is one my favorite songs/videos ever.
i agree with brandon. if it's professional pay or a TOP site, yeah, cut it. otherwise, tell them to fuck off. nicely, of course. can you tell us where this is? or hint? or just PM me :-)
Yeah, and in the One video they cut down Johnny Get Your Gun to its essential 2% of film - love that video...
Thanks for the input, everyone. Acting on sage advice from some old pros I'm going to accept the cut and see if it gets accepted.
Definitely what Brandon said. If they're paying at least 5 cents a word, or are a major, prestigious publication, hell yes. If they're not, fuggeddaboudit. There are other markets. 80% isn't exactly a minor task, so it had better be worth your while. In my opinion, for flash fiction, they'd better be paying 5 cents a word or it probably isn't worth your while. Don't settle -- it's your work, so be proud of it.
I can't imagine who in their right mind would ask you to cut that much instead of just passing on it. Brandon and Richard know what the deal is. I would say even if it is pro pay, I wouldn't trust that kind of editorial intrusion unless it was a high high profile market that I've been dying to get into. But I imagine you'd do okay, them probably wanting first electronic rights and you can still shop around the complete version after that. Strange request, but at least you're getting some love with your submissions. I'd be interested to know what place this is...
^hey, you can always write more, right?
Thanks again everyone. If it gets published I will let y'all know.
A zine just wrote me back saying the loved my story but wanted a different ending. Its a tough call... but I'll probably see if I can change it to suit their needs. Its a zombie story and they basically said that the ending was too predictable. And as tough as it is to admit, I agree with them. So sometimes a publisher can push you to make something better. Obviously if I felt strongly enough about what I wrote, I'd just say no and try to shop it around somewhere else, but since I sort of feel the same way, I'm willing to make those kinds of changes.
I would change it if the editor's suggestions improved the story. Otherwise, no.
^what bradley said.
I think it'll make the story better, but who knows? I'll let everyone know if it gets sold or not and whether or not I feel like a whore for changing it.
Well, if anything, it's a collaboration.
I'd do it. Just tell them to pay me in booze.
that might work. I wish Jameson's would sponsor me. I hope they got my letters.
