Since January of 2010 I have only, with a few exceptions, submitted my short stories to markets that  pay professional rates. As a result, I have not had any sales in almost two years. The exceptions are reprints and one or two stories that I did not think were right for pro markets.

A few weeks ago, my friend Don and I wrote stories based on the images of a painting that I got as a Christmas present a few years ago. I love the painting and it is very narrative in its subject and style. It shows a huge crowned image of Neptune rising from the sea, but Neptune looks more like a fishy monster than a god. I wrote up an idea from years ago that I’ve taken a couple of stabs at and gave up on. The painting made the difference and I wrote a decent, but very short story. 2700 words is too short for the pro venues, at least the way I write. The story had H.P Lovecraft elements so I sent it in to a horror magazine that pays a small honorarium for stories. I have not yet heard, but it is a magazine that I have read and respect, so I am hopeful that the Lovecraft elements are strong enough to make it acceptable.

I have three other stories out at Pro markets. One has been sitting in their slush for nearly 9 months. In total the 3 stories add up to almost three years of waiting. The latest story, is still out at the quicker markets, but soon it will be going out to the markets that take up to six months to respond.

I am reconsidering this profession market restriction, but I know as soon as I sell a story to a semi-pro zine that I will regret it. I don’t write as many stories as I used, though, because all of the rejections are discouraging. I have a dozen good stories, at least, that I have started and not had the energy to finish. They need to be finished. Maybe I’ll sell the little horror story and that will get me writing again.

Update: Rejection – now there is no place to send this story. Stories are like my children. I love then all, even the ugly ones. I feel bad that this story will never be published.