Here's my situation. I have a permanent address that I've been doing all of my submission business from, but I'm being a nomad this year because of my applications process.
The long and short of it is, I'm away from my mail for weeks to months at a time. My mail is getting collected and shuffled through for school news, but I also have about three stories out making the rounds, and my uncle isn't looking for those responses.
If, in the outside chance one of my stories is accepted somewhere, will it be a tragic thing if I don't hear the news for a few weeks? How time-sensitive is this process?
(As a reference: the markets are Asimov's, WOTF, and Intergalactic Medicine Show.)
Thanks for your help!
Posted by pantros (Member # 3237) on :
Even if you are accepted, you need to then give them permission to print your work and agree to the terms of payment.
If you do not reply in a timely manner, your acceptance may lapse.
Posted by yanos (Member # 1831) on :
The large publishers have strict deadlines to work to. If they accept it will be for a particular issue. If I was you I'd try to make sure I check my email once a week at least. If you tell the zines that you'd prefer to be initially contacted by email or phone that will help. Most are understandable about such things.
Posted by Elan (Member # 2442) on :
If your uncle is sorting your mail for you, why don't you write down the names and addresses of the publishers for him. Tell him to be on a lookout for them and that he should call you the instant he sees an envelope with a publisher's address on it.
Posted by MaryRobinette (Member # 1680) on :
Relax. Asimov's buys stories for several months out. If they like the story enough to buy it, then they'll forgive you for a slow response when you explain why.
IGMS does email responses, so no trouble there.
As I understand it, WotF does email reponses for the winners and they won't be making decisions until mid-December at the earliest.
Posted by Silver3 (Member # 2174) on :
I think WOTF notifies the semi-finalists and the finalists by email, and yeah, they're not going to be in touch before mid-December.