FIYAH is venturing into nonfiction with open submission periods beginning in April. Here are some notes on what editor Margeaux Weston is looking for.
FIYAH is now open to nonfiction submissions! This is something brand new for FIYAH and I’m sure you have so many things you’d love to write about. The space is open and honestly, I’d love to read every critical, thought-provoking, blackety-black word you have, but I want to make sure it’s the right fit for FIYAH. So, before you prepare to send over your query, I’d love to share what I’m looking for in this new space.
So how does nonfiction fit into the speculative world?
It’s true that nonfiction is bound by “facts,” whereas speculative fiction may be simply stated as a genre of “what ifs.” Think about the role imagination plays in the nonfiction genre. Speculative nonfiction, then, can be summed up as examining the figurative over the literal.
For FIYAH, I’m looking for writing that examines the figurative over the literal, from a distinctively Black lens. Give me your best on theory, cultural myths, craft, the supernatural, afro-futurism, afro-gothic….again, your best. Think outside of the box—which is where speculative fiction lives. At this time, I’m not looking for stories centering Black trauma.
Does it have to align with the theme?
No. If you have a great idea that somehow aligns to our current theme, wonderful! I’d love to read your query. If not, no problem.
For submission guidelines and how to submit please the submission page here.
