Ninth Letter — 1. Web Edition FICTION

Overview
Ninth Letter, a literary journal affiliated with the University of Illinois, opens its web edition for fiction submissions. This call is distinct from the print edition and demands adherence to specific digital formatting constraints. The journal seeks short fiction—either a single piece or up to three flash pieces—totaling no more than 3,500 words. A thematic connection note is mandatory; submissions lacking this note will be disqualified. The web edition's platform cannot publish fully justified text, so submissions must avoid that formatting. Accepted file types are .doc, .docx, and .pdf. Only submissions through the designated link will be considered; postal mail, email, and print edition channels are ineligible. The web edition represents a focused digital counterpart to Ninth Letter's print presence, offering a space for fiction that engages with a specified theme. While the theme itself is not detailed in the provided information, the requirement for an explanatory note indicates a curatorial emphasis on intentionality and thematic resonance. The journal's editorial vision for this edition appears to prioritize work that is both formally aware—given the formatting restrictions—and conceptually aligned with the theme. There is no submission fee, aligning with Ninth Letter's commitment to accessible literary publishing. Writers selected for publication will have their work featured in the web edition, reaching Ninth Letter's readership. The journal does not specify monetary prizes or additional benefits in this call. The absence of a fee and the clear guidelines suggest a straightforward, merit-based selection process. The requirement for a thematic note underscores that this is not a general fiction call but one seeking work in conversation with a particular idea, though the theme itself must be inferred from external sources or the submission portal.